psilocybin (Queen's University)

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound and a serotonergic agonist that acts as a prodrug for psilocin. In the specific clinical context of the study led by Dr. Gustavo Vazquez at Queen's University (NCT06818994), psilocybin is being evaluated as a 25 mg oral dose administered within a structured psychotherapeutic framework for the treatment of demoralization syndrome in patients with advanced-stage cancer. This "psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy" protocol utilizes elements of Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (CALM) therapy to help patients process existential distress. The primary therapeutic effect is mediated through the activation of serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, which is thought to promote neuroplasticity and facilitate psychological insights, potentially leading to sustained improvements in mood, quality of life, and spiritual well-being in palliative care settings.

Brand names

Visual Healing

Other names

psilocybin-assisted psychotherapypsilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for demoralization syndrome