Psilocybin cancer study seeks volunteers

Reader Evan from Entheogenic Reformation writes to inform us of a new study seeking volunteers:

In recent years, scientists at some U.S. universities have been conducting studies using entheogens, resuming research in pharmacology, psychology, creativity, and spirituality that was suspended following the drug excesses of the 1960s. Researchers at the Johns Hopkins University are seeking volunteers with a current or past diagnosis of cancer who have some anxiety or are feeling down about their cancer to participate in a scientific study of self-exploration and personal meaning brought about by the entheogen psilocybin, a psychoactive substance found in mushrooms used as a sacrament in some cultures, given in a comfortable, supportive setting.

When discussing the benefits of this study, the principal investigator Roland Griffiths Ph.D. said; "the primary mystical experience might fundamentally change the perception of disease and perhaps quality of life in people distressed by life-threatening diagnoses of cancer."

Volunteers enrolled in the study will receive careful preparation and 2 sessions in which they will receive psilocybin. Structured guidance will be provided during the session and afterwards to facilitate integration of the experiences. The study complies with FDA regulations. f you would like to discuss the possibility of volunteering, please call 410-550-5990 or email cancer@bpru.org and ask for Mary, the study's research coordinator.