Investigating the therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin in advanced cancer patients: A comprehensive review and meta-analysis

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 studies with 132 participants found that psilocybin-assisted therapy significantly improved quality of life, pain control, and anxiety relief in adults with advanced cancer. Anxiety symptoms showed statistically significant reductions at both 4 to 4.5 months and 6 to 6.5 months after treatment. Patients also reported sustained improvements in psychological well-being and existential distress. The evidence suggests potential benefits of psilocybin therapy for this population.

Study at a glance

Abstract

BACKGROUND Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, is known for its effects on anxiety and depression. It has recently gained increasing interest for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in patients with advanced cancer. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the effects of psilocybin on adult patients with advanced cancer. AIM To investigate the therapeutic effect of psilocybin in patients with advanced cancer. METHODS A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar for articles published up to February 2023. The reference lists of the included studies were also searched to retrieve possible additional studies. RESULTS A total of 7 studies met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review, comprising 132 participants. The results revealed significant improvements in quality of life, pain control, and anxiety relief following psilocybin-assisted therapy, specifically results on anxiety relief. Pooled effect sizes indicated statistically significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety at both 4 to 4.5 months [35.15 (95%CI: 32.28-38.01)] and 6 to 6.5 months [33.06 (95%CI: 28.73-37.40)]. Post-administration compared to baseline assessments (P < 0.05). Additionally, patients reported sustained improvements in psychological well-being and existential distress following psilocybin therapy. CONCLUSION The findings provided compelling evidence for the potential benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy in improving quality of life, pain control, and anxiety relief in patients with advanced cancer.