Exploring Microdosing Psychedelics as a Self-Managed Treatment for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: A Qualitative Study
OpenAlex – July 25, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
All 14 individuals interviewed about managing Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) reported benefits from microdosing psilocybin. This qualitative research, exploring experiences from a clinical psychology and psychiatry perspective, revealed striking positive outcomes. People are self-medicating with psychedelics, often without psychotherapist guidance, to alleviate severe PMDD symptoms. While regimen varied, every participant found relief. This area of Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggests a potential for new treatments, inspiring future investigations akin to herbal medicine research studies.
Abstract
Background: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood disorder characterised by depression, irritability, mood lability, anxiety and physical symptoms that occur exclusively in the last week/s of the menstrual cycle. With a growing global interest in microdosing of psychedelic drugs, an increase in self-medication has occurred, including by those with PMDD. Aim: Qualitative interviewing was used to explore and contextualise the practise of microdosing psychedelics for PMDD. In addition to documenting motivations, barriers and experiences we set out to determine if there is a rationale for investigating microdosing as a treatment for PMDD.Methods: 14 participants were interviewed. They were diagnosed or self-identifying as having PMDD or they self-rated their PMS mood symptoms as severe. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to guide recorded interviews which were transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.Results: Participants provide a rich account of their PMDD and how it impacted their quality of life. All participants microdosed with psilocybin. There was a striking variability in regimen as well as variability in treatment goals. Overall, all participants found benefit to their PMDD with microdosing. Conclusion: People are microdosing with psilocybin to manage their PMDD and while experiences were variable, they were generally positive. Information to support people engaging in this practise is lacking. Given the experiences of these participants and that PMDD is a potentially devastating disorder with limited treatments options, clinical trials into the potential of microdosing psychedelics to treat PMDD symptoms and improve the overall wellbeing of those affected is warranted.