Magic mushroom compound may ease despair in advanced cancer patients

NCT ID NCT06818994

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Gustavo Vazquez Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) combined with talk therapy can safely reduce demoralization in people with advanced cancer. Fifteen participants aged 18-70 will receive one 25 mg dose of psilocybin during an 8-hour supervised session, plus several therapy sessions before and after. The study measures changes in demoralization, depression, anxiety, and safety.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: psilocybin (a psychedelic compound)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new treatment for demoralization in advanced cancer patients, improving their mental well-being.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-phase pilot study with only 15 people, so results may not apply broadly. Psilocybin can cause intense psychological experiences and side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DEMORALIZATION SAFETY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Queen's University
RECRUITING

Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada

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