Joseph Friedman

University of California San Diego

2 papers in the library · 1 citation · publishing 2026

Papers

Prevalence and Reasons for Microdosing Cannabis, Psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA Among U.S. Adults

American Journal of Preventive Medicine May 4, 2026 Kevin H. Yang, Nora Satybaldiyeva, Wayne Kepner et al. 1 citation

Cannabis is the most commonly microdosed substance among U.S. adults, with 9.4% (24.1 million) reporting lifetime use, followed by psilocybin (5.3%, 13.7 million), LSD (4.8%, 12.4 million), and MDMA (2.2%, 5.7 million). Cannabis is primarily microdosed for medical reasons such as pain management, whereas psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA are more often used recreationally. Lifetime microdosing is more prevalent among people with poorer mental health and those living in jurisdictions with fewer restrictions on cannabis and psychedelics. As policies continue to evolve, the prevalence of microdosing may increase, highlighting the need for ongoing surveillance.

DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2026.108381 Full text MDMA Medline Young adult Drug +4

Clinical Characteristics of Emergency Visits Related to Recreational Psychedelic Use.

Community mental health journal April 1, 2026 Kush V Bhatt, Joseph Friedman, Lindsay Benster et al.

Recreational psychedelic use is increasing, but data on adverse events is limited. A retrospective chart review of emergency department visits at UC San Diego Medical Center from 2010 to 2023 identified 232 cases linked to LSD (35%), MDMA (30.2%), and psilocybin (24%). Patients were mostly young, white, and male. Common symptoms included agitation (25.9%) and anxiety (24.6%); 11.2% required psychiatric hospitalization. Factors associated with higher odds of hospitalization were concurrent cannabis use (odds ratio 10.9), history of bipolar disorder (odds ratio 12.67), and history of a primary psychotic disorder (odds ratio 17.10). Most psychedelic-related emergency visits are managed without hospitalization, but these specific vulnerabilities predict severe outcomes.

DOI: 10.1007/s10597-026-01620-x Full text Psychedelic Emergency department Hallucinogen Substance use