Special Access Program for Psychedelic Therapy

Discover how you can access transformative psychedelic-assisted therapies through Canada's Special Access Program (SAP).

What is the Special Access Program (SAP)?

The Special Access Program (SAP) allows healthcare practitioners to request access to unauthorized drugs, including certain psychedelics, for patients with serious or life-threatening conditions when conventional treatments are inadequate or unavailable. This program is managed by Health Canada and provides a pathway for patients to access innovative treatments that are not yet widely approved or available.

Which Psychedelics are Accessible via SAP? 

The Special Access Program (SAP) in Canada provides a pathway for accessing certain psychedelics for therapeutic purposes. Currently, the following psychedelics are available through SAP:

MDMA-Assisted Therapy 

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) is a powerful therapeutic tool being explored for its potential to treat severe mental health conditions, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When administered in a controlled therapeutic setting, MDMA can enhance emotional openness, reduce fear, and facilitate profound psychological breakthroughs. Through the SAP, individuals with treatment-resistant PTSD or other trauma-related conditions may access MDMA-assisted therapy under strict regulatory guidelines.

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy 

Psilocybin, the active compound in "magic mushrooms," is recognized for its potential to address mood disorders and existential distress, especially in end-of-life care. Psilocybin-assisted therapy is being studied for its efficacy in treating conditions such as treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Under the SAP, patients can access psilocybin-assisted therapy to explore new perspectives, gain deeper self-understanding, and find relief from debilitating symptoms when traditional treatments have been ineffective.

 How Does SAP Work?

SAP facilitates access to non-marketed drugs, including MDMA and psilocybin, under specific conditions and requirements. Here’s an overview of the process:

  • The healthcare practitioner submits a request to Health Canada, detailing the patient’s condition, the rationale for using the unauthorized drug, and the expected benefits.

  • Health Canada reviews the application to ensure the drug's use is justified based on available evidence and the patient’s needs.

  • If approved, the drug can be provided for the patient’s use under the SAP guidelines.

  • Practitioners must report on the drug’s use, including any adverse reactions observed.

For a detailed guide, you can refer to the Health Canada Special Access Program Guidance.

We’ve Partnered with TheraPsil

TheraPsil offers expert assistance to patients seeking to navigate the SAP application process. Their support includes:

Application Support

Helping with the preparation and submission of SAP applications.

Coordination

Facilitating communication between patients, practitioners, and Health Canada.

Program Management

Overseeing the delivery and management of psychedelic therapies, ensuring adherence to SAP guidelines.

By leveraging TheraPsil’s expertise, you can streamline the process of accessing MDMA-assisted therapy and focus on your healing journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Special Access Program (SAP) is a Health Canada initiative that allows healthcare practitioners to request access to drugs that are not available on the Canadian market, including certain psychedelics. It provides a pathway for patients with serious or life-threatening conditions to access innovative treatments when conventional therapies are inadequate or unavailable.

  • To access MDMA or Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy through SAP, you need to work with a healthcare practitioner who can submit an application to Health Canada on your behalf. The application will detail your condition, the rationale for using the psychedelic therapy, and the expected benefits. If approved, you will receive access to the therapy under SAP guidelines.

  • Criteria include having a serious or life-threatening condition where conventional treatments have failed, are unsuitable, or are unavailable. Health Canada reviews the application to ensure that the use of the psychedelic therapy is justified based on the available evidence and the patient’s needs. Currently approved conditions include:

    • End-of-life distress/Terminal Illness

    • Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

    • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • TheraPsil provides expert assistance in navigating the SAP application process. Their services include helping with application preparation and submission, facilitating communication between patients, practitioners, and Health Canada, and managing the delivery of psychedelic therapies.

  •  TheraPsil requires a one-time non-refundable fee of $250 to access their intake system. The total cost of this program depends on various factors, including private health insurance coverage, space rental, and the number of therapy sessions required. 

  • The duration of the SAP application process can vary. It depends on factors such as the complexity of the case and Health Canada’s review timeline. Generally, it can take several weeks to months from submission to approval.

  • This depends on the specific medications you are taking. It is important to discuss your current medication regimen with your healthcare practitioner to determine if there are any potential interactions or necessary adjustments.

  • If an SAP application is denied, the practitioner will receive feedback from Health Canada explaining the reasons for the denial. Patients and practitioners can address the concerns raised or explore alternative treatment options.

  • You can contact TheraPsil directly through their website or by phone. They offer expert support to guide you through the SAP process and help you access the therapies you need.

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