The Viability of Microdosing Psychedelics as a Strategy to Enhance Cognition and Well-being - An Early Review.

This review examines the existing research on psychedelic microdosing—taking very small, sub-perceptual doses of psychedelics. Evidence so far suggests users report benefits such as improved mood, focus, and creativity, though some studies find no effects and a minority report negative consequences like increased anxiety and physical discomfort. However, methodological weaknesses in current studies prevent firm conclusions.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Psychedelic substances are currently experiencing a renaissance in interest for both therapeutic as well as recreational applications. It has been proposed that microdosing, i.e., ingesting sub-perceptual doses of a psychedelic, could confer some of the benefits of these substances to users while minimizing the risks associated with full-dose use. This review aimed to summarize and examine the extant literature on psychedelic microdosing. Exploratory evidence published to date indicates a variety of benefits reported by microdosers including improvements in mood, focus, and creativity, with some null reports, and a minority of people reporting selective negative consequences such as increased anxiety and physiological discomfort. Methodological limitations of current evidence, however, make definitive conclusions hard to draw. Recommendations for future research are given.