Psychedelics in Palliative Care
May 1, 2025 DOI: 10.1093/med/9780197760864.001.0001 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Topics | End-of-life distress |
| Citations | 2 |
| Key points | Argues that eight major psychedelic medications hold promise for treating symptoms such as pain, depression, PTSD, and existential distress in palliative care and addiction medicine. |
Abstract
Abstract This is the first book to explore the use of psychedelic medicines in palliative care and addiction medicine. Bringing together a diverse team of palliative physicians, therapists, researchers, spiritual guides, and entrepreneurs, the book explores the history, cultural significance, science, and legal status of eight major psychedelic medications. Each medication holds fascinating promise for treatment of symptoms such as pain, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and existential distress, making them some of the most interesting drugs on the horizon currently. These are drugs that were rarely studied until quite recently, and they are currently undergoing a renaissance in medical research and development. They hold huge potential for treatment of the symptoms experienced in those with terminal illness, debilitating chronic illness, and addiction.