Skip to content

C Donegan

University of Auckland

3 papers in the library · 5 citations · publishing 2025-2026

Papers

LSD microdosing in major depressive disorder: results from an open-label trial

Neuropharmacology November 5, 2025 Dimitri Daldegan‐bueno, C Donegan, Rachael L. Sumner et al. 4 citations

In an open-label phase 2A trial, 19 participants with major depressive disorder, most of whom were taking antidepressants, took microdoses of LSD twice weekly for eight weeks. No serious adverse events occurred, and one participant withdrew due to anxiety. Depression scores on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale dropped by 59.5% at the end of the intervention, with improvements sustained for up to six months. Anxiety, rumination, stress, and quality of life also improved. The results provide preliminary evidence that microdosed LSD is safe and feasible for treating moderate depression, but randomized controlled trials are needed.

DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2025.110762 Anxiety Major depressive disorder Tolerability Adverse effect +11

LSD microdosing for major depressive disorder: Mood and pharmacokinetic outcomes from a Phase 2a trial

Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry February 18, 2026 Dimitri Henriques Daldegan-Bueno, C Donegan, Rachael L. Sumner et al. 1 citation

Taking very low doses of LSD (8 micrograms) repeatedly over a short period may temporarily improve mood in people with depression, though the effect needs confirmation in controlled experiments. The drug's behavior in the body was measured in this group, and no evidence of tolerance or increased sensitivity appeared, even when the dose was gradually increased.

DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2026.111645 Major depressive disorder Pharmacokinetics Depression economics Depressive symptoms +8

155. EXPLORING LSD MICRODOSING IN AN OPEN-LABEL PILOT FOR MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER: THE INTERPLAY OF BEHAVIORAL ACTIVATION, MOOD IMPROVEMENT, AND CONNECTEDNESS

The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology August 1, 2025 C Donegan, D Daldagen-Bueno, Robin J. Murphy et al.

In an open label trial, 17 people with major depressive disorder took 15 doses of LSD at home and one in a clinic over 8 weeks. Afterward, participants reported increased connectedness to self, others, and nature; greater motivation for activities; improved mood; and better coping with negative situations. Some experienced side effects or no change in symptoms. The findings suggest that microdosing LSD may create a positive feedback loop where improved mood, behavioral activation, and connectedness reinforce each other, and that adding a titration protocol and encouraging psychologically beneficial activities could enhance benefits and reduce side effects.

DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaf052.166 Full text Major depressive disorder Social connectedness Mood Open label +5