Microdosing LSD

What Is Microdosing LSD?

Microdosing LSD means taking very small amounts of the psychedelic drug lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). The doses are usually around 5 to 20 micrograms, which is about 1/10th to 1/20th of a regular recreational dose. At this level, users typically do not have full-blown hallucinations or strong psychedelic effects. Instead, they may notice slight changes in mood, perception, or thinking.

Microdosing certain psychedelic drugs can reportedly improve mood, induce physical and mental stimulation, and encourage creative thinking. Emerging studies support the notion that hallucinogenic drugs, taken in small doses or under the supervision and guidance of a medical professional, can be used to treat mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, regular and frequent use of any drug, including LSD, carries risks. It may lead to serious mental or physical health issues for some people.

Given many hallucinogens’ status as Schedule I drugs, it is difficult to conduct FDA-approved scientific studies. Moreover, most microdosing studies rely on reporting and statistics provided by self-proclaimed “microdosers” who would likely have a positive bias regarding the practice. Consequently, legitimate claims made regarding mental health treatment with psychedelics remain rare.

Microdosing Origins: Shared Experiences Online

Microdosing LSD and other hallucinogens initially gained popularity among drug users sharing their experiences on the internet. Practitioners used online community forums (such as Reddit) and psychedelic information sites’ message boards (like Erowid) to boast about the “benefits” of microdosing.

While both LSD and magic mushrooms are illegal on the federal level in the US and in many other countries, more and more people are beginning to claim that small amounts make them feel more focused, creative, and productive. Testimonies of individual experiences with microdosing can be found from people of nearly every demographic: young tech industry employees, middle-aged parents with children, and even high-ranking corporate executives from prominent companies.

However, these testimonials don’t come from medical or psychiatric professionals. LSD and other psychedelics are dangerous and illegal; their use can cause serious medical, social, and legal complications.

The Changing Stigma Of Hallucinogen Use

These claims online, despite having no scientific backing, quickly turned the practice from niche hobby to nationwide phenomenon. Yet, despite the claimed benefits, microdosing remains a form of substance abuse.

Notably, many users reported first trying microdosing as a substitute for Adderall (a stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD). Adderall is also referred to as a “study drug” or “smart drug” by many college students and young professionals who misuse it, either by taking it without a prescription or by taking it in excessive quantities. Because of the perceived positive effects on work or school performance, many people who don’t consider themselves typical drug users may be attracted to microdosing LSD.

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Microdosing And Mental Illness

There is an emerging body of research looking into the possible benefits of psychedelic drugs in treating mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even addiction to other substances.

Some studies have found that psilocybin could alleviate symptoms of otherwise treatment-resistant depression. These studies showed no evidence of the side-effects seen with conventional antidepressants, such as mood swings or apathy. A similar study of ayahuasca, an Amazonian plant mixture with psychedelic qualities, had promising results and could be “a safe and promising treatment” for both depression and alcohol use disorder.

Another study specifically examining the effects of microdosing LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline found that participants reported heightened levels of creativity, focus, happiness, and productiveness. While long-term results showed a decrease in depression and anxiety symptoms, researchers also found an increase in neuroticism and unpleasant emotions in some participants.

It’s exciting, but the potentially adverse changes in neuronal structure and metabolism that we observe emphasize the need for additional studies.

Despite the results of these studies, there is still not enough peer-reviewed and validated research on the topic, making it dangerous for people to try microdosing on their own. Not only is it dangerous to consume any drug without the guidance and supervision of a medical professional, but the potential side effects are ultimately unknown.

Additionally, the practice of mixing substances such as LSD or psilocybin with antidepressants can be dangerous and even lethal. There are numerous cases where the combination of hallucinogens and antidepressants has resulted in the development of serotonin syndrome and other, potentially fatal health issues. Lithium (a medication used in cases of treatment-resistant depression), in particular, is known to put people into comatose states or induce seizures when taken in combination with LSD.

Dangers Of Microdosing

There is a common misconception that hallucinogenic drugs are relatively safe because they’re not as physically addictive as other illicit drugs, such as benzodiazepines and opioids. However, there are still dangers associated with microdosing LSD.

Microdosing LSD has several potential risks, even at low doses. Physically, it can increase heart rate, raise blood pressure, cause insomnia, lead to headaches, or result in nausea. Psychologically, microdosing may trigger anxiety, mood swings, irritability, paranoia, or worsen existing mental health issues like depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.

It can also alter behavior and thinking, leading to poor judgment, risky behavior, building tolerance over time, or unpredictable shifts in focus and emotional responses. Moreover, there are legal and safety issues, since LSD is illegal in many countries, doses are often not regulated, and the long-term impact of regular microdosing is unclear. Given the illegality of LSD and other hallucinogens, there is a high potential for dealers to lace them with other drugs like fentanyl, ketamine, or meth. These adulterants are not only highly addictive, but may cause a fatal overdose.

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While some people mention benefits, microdosing comes with significant risks and can affect individuals in different ways.

If you are using microdosing LSD to cope with mental health struggles, it’s important to consider safer and more effective options, such as therapy or counseling, which can provide long-term support and coping strategies. If you find yourself abusing drugs and feel unable to stop, seeking professional help through a rehab program can offer structured care, guidance, and resources to support recovery.

Explore our rehab directory today to find a treatment center, or explore your online therapy options.