Sunstone Therapies Reports Breakthrough in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Cancer Patients with Depression

LOS ANGELES- Sunstone Therapies, a organization in psychedelic-assisted therapy, recently announced notable findings from its phase 2 clinical trial, published in the journal Cancer. This trial marks a significant step in understanding the potential of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) among cancer patients.

The study, an open-label trial, involved administering psilocybin to small groups of 3-4 participants, all diagnosed with both curable and incurable cancer and MDD. This approach was distinctive for its 1:1 therapist-to-patient ratio, deviating from the previous standard of 2:1. The therapy included individual and group support sessions before, during, and after the psilocybin dosing. Initial findings of the trial were previously published in JAMA Oncology in April 2023.

The trial’s results were encouraging. Thirty participants successfully completed the study, demonstrating that psilocybin-assisted therapy in a group setting is safe, feasible, and effective. A significant aspect of the trial was the use of synthesized COMP360 psilocybin, with each participant receiving a 25mg dose. The study recorded a clinically meaningful reduction in depression severity, with a significant number of participants showing sustained response and remission of depressive symptoms over eight weeks.

Moreover, the study reported no severe adverse effects related to psilocybin, with only mild and expected side effects like nausea and headache. Importantly, there were no instances of suicidality linked to the treatment.

A secondary study, led by Dr. Yvan Beaussant of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, provided further insights through exit interviews with the participants. This qualitative data highlighted the positive experiences of the patients, noting the benefits of the group setting in enhancing safety, preparedness, and the overall therapeutic experience.

Dr. Manish Agrawal, CEO and Co-founder of Sunstone Therapies, and the principal investigator of the study, emphasized the significance of these findings. He highlighted the study’s contribution to the growing evidence supporting the effectiveness of psilocybin-assisted therapy for cancer patients’ mental distress. Furthermore, Dr. Agrawal pointed out the potential for efficient and scalable delivery of this therapy, suggesting a path for its broader adoption in the future.

Sunstone Therapies is at the forefront of developing and delivering psychedelic-assisted therapy in medical settings. The organization is committed to establishing the highest standards for psychedelic clinics, aiming to alleviate the emotional suffering of individuals affected by cancer and complex mental health challenges. Through clinical trials and future clinical delivery, Sunstone Therapies is dedicated to making safe and effective psychedelic-assisted therapy widely accessible.