Psychedelics and Cluster Headaches

There has been a large recent increase in attention to the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for mental health. Now, the dramatic benefits are being shown to extend beyond psychological to physical health.

Cluster headaches, notoriously labelled “suicide headaches”, are among the most excruciating conditions known to medicine. Attacks, characterised by a stabbing sensation centred on one eye, can last an hour or longer, usually occur multiple times a day, and have devastating effects on patients' quality of life. Cycles usually last 1-3 months at a time, but in chronic patients they can last indefinitely without interruption. 

Psilocybin, LSD and 5-MeO-DALT have all been found not just to reduce the frequency of attacks but to prevent and abort entire cluster headache cycles. DMT has even been found to halt attacks within seconds. These are benefits that go well beyond what standard medicines can achieve.

Although there are a few clinical trials now underway, the evidence of effectiveness is already overwhelming. There is an urgent need to make these substances available to patients and remove the threat of prosecution for patients who self-medicate.

What causes these agonizing headaches and how can psychedelics provide a solution? What are the obstacles to changing laws and regulations so that patients can access these potentially life-changing medicines? Co-organised with the Organisation for the Prevention of Intense Suffering (OPIS), join us for this panel event as we explore psychedelic science, medicine and policy.