A study was published in the Archives of General Psychiatry in which psilpcybin, the chemical that takes mushrooms to "magic mushrooms," was given to a test group. The test group consisted of cancer patients in the advanced stages of their disease. The purpose of the study was to see whether this schedule I, hallucinagenic drug had any effect on the anxiety these patients felt in regards to their terminal condition.
These patients, all of whom were guided through their trips, reported feeling significantly less depressed, and some even connected with their disease from a different perspective, and felt closer to family members. I am not surprised by this, seeing as these are usual reportings of the effects of the chemical, regardless of physical health. I am surprised in regards to this study, however. I believe that, so long as this group of people feel happier, more accepting, or optimistic toward their illness, then they were benefitted. I also understand the need for exploration of treatments, especially mental health treatments in terminally ill. But I am taken aback by this study for a few reasons.
1) there is still such a great debate as the the benefits/risks (physically, socially, financially, you name it) towards medical marijuana. So the timing of studying this chemical, with longer, more lasting effects surprises me. 2) Though we know how this group was positively effected, what is the plan in terms of the "dose?" Would it be intended to be given every day? A one time dose (though the treatment group went through two six-hour sessions)? Once a month for a cleansing? Are we going to just numb the patients into a permanent state of Wonderland? I think the long-term plan was not necessarily thought through.
The findings of this study fascinate me. The notion that alternative drugs / treatments are being tested is great; it also speaks to the attitudes of drugs in general, and looking at possible positives they can offer. I am happy for each individual that reported finding more peace. However, the idea of where this study will go from here, I'm not too sure about.
http://www.takepart.com/news/2010/09/16/study-finds-magic-treatment-for-terminally-ill-patients
