Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Psilocybin May Prevent Chemotherapy-Induced Nerve Damage

A compound in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, shows promise in preventing chemotherapy-induced nerve damage and pain. This condition, peripheral neuropathy, affects many cancer patients.

A study in Science found psilocybin prevented pain hypersensitivity in mice before chemotherapy. It appears to maintain nerve cell mitochondria function, disrupted by drugs like cisplatin.

The discovery was accidental, with researchers observing mice pre-treated with psilocybin did not develop nerve damage. Psilocybin did not hinder chemotherapy's tumor-shrinking effects.

Further tests on human nerve cells suggested a similar protective effect. Researchers plan a mid-stage clinical trial to investigate this in humans.

Currently, no effective treatments exist for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Psilocybin could help patients avoid long-lasting pain.

Experts caution that human trials are crucial, as preclinical success doesn't always translate. More data on larger nerve fibers is needed.

Anecdotal evidence from earlier human research suggests psilocybin has eased neuropathy pain and helped patients cope with treatment side effects.

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