Using psilocybin to help cancer patients with anxiety and depression

Psilocybin Therapy for Advanced Cancer-related Psychiatric Distress

['FUNDING_R01'] · NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-10903758

This study is looking at how psilocybin therapy might help people with advanced cancer feel less anxious and depressed, so they can enjoy a better quality of life while dealing with their illness.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10903758 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of psilocybin therapy to alleviate psychiatric distress in patients with advanced cancer. It aims to address significant anxiety and depression that many cancer patients experience, which can negatively impact their quality of life and treatment adherence. The approach involves administering psilocybin in a controlled therapeutic setting, where patients can engage in meaningful experiences that may lead to lasting improvements in their mental health and overall well-being. The study builds on previous findings that suggest psilocybin can produce positive changes in cognition and spirituality.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with advanced cancer who are experiencing significant psychiatric distress, including anxiety and depression.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing significant psychiatric distress or those with contraindications to psilocybin therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapeutic option for cancer patients suffering from severe anxiety and depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for psilocybin therapy in improving mental health outcomes in similar patient populations.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Adjustment Disorders, Advanced Cancer, Anxiety Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.