ISSN: 2577-4301
Authors: Whelan A*, Baranidharan G, Bretherton B and Crowther T
Background: Anecdotal and survey evidence suggests that psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD in low doses can improve cluster headaches. Up to 30% of people with cluster headaches cannot prevent headaches from occurring with conventional preventative treatments. Abortive and preventive medications have side effects which can be harmful, and there are reports that preventive medications can “wear out†over time. As a result, there is an urgent clinical need for alternative safe treatments that effectively abort and prevent the occurrence of cluster headache attacks. Current survey data suggests that psilocybin may be safer and more effective than current best medical therapy. Therefore, an online survey was conducted to assess the feasibility and acceptability of using these medications amongst the cluster headache community. Methods: The survey was conducted on social media platforms from 11th February-20th April 2020 and was funded with a National Institute for Health Research - Research Design Services Grant. The survey established if participants suffered from cluster headaches, the type, and their opinions on whether they considered psilocybin an acceptable drug to research and use as a medication. Results: In total 154 individuals with cluster headache took part. Findings revealed that 87% of respondents had little concern over the potential use of psilocybin as a treatment for cluster headaches. Although most concerns surrounded its legal status, dosage and side effect profile, 81% of respondents would consider using psilocybin if it was demonstrated to be beneficial. Of the 30 respondents who admitted to using psychedelics to treat cluster headaches, 80% rated it 8, 9 or 10 out of 10 for effectiveness. 78% of respondents would consider entering a study with this medication. Conclusions: Findings suggest there is considerable interest in psilocybin as a potential medication in individuals with cluster headache. The majority of respondents would consider entering a study investigating low dose psilocybin in cluster headache. Surveyed effectiveness of psychedelic use in reducing cluster headaches appears to be strong. Clinical research is needed to establish efficacy, safe dosing strategies and side effect profiles.
Keywords: Cluster headache; Psilocybin; Online survey
