Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer
A single high dose of psilocybin produced large, clinically significant decreases in depressed mood and anxiety that were sustained at the 6-month follow-up in about 80% of participants.
- Institution
- Johns Hopkins University
- Design
- Randomized, double-blind, crossover
- Sample size
- 51 participants
- Intervention
- Single high dose (22 or 30 mg/70kg) vs. very low placebo-like dose, crossover
- Year
- 2016
- Condition
- Cancer-related depression and anxiety
Small sample, difficult to fully blind given psilocybin's noticeable effects, and a self-selected population of medically and psychiatrically screened patients.
One of the two landmark 2016 trials that re-established psilocybin as a serious subject of clinical psychiatry. Conducted at Johns Hopkins under highly controlled conditions with extensive psychological preparation and support, it remains among the most-cited studies in the field.
Summary written by MMI Editorial for clarity. Always consult the primary source for full methodology and results. Confidence rating reflects our assessment of evidence strength.