Psilocybin Microdosing 101
Psilocybin microdosing has gained significant attention as a subtle yet potentially impactful approach to enhancing mental wellness. Unlike macrodosing, which involves consuming doses large enough to elicit noticeable effects consistent with the classical “psychedelic trip,” microdosing refers to the practice of taking sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin, typically 1/10th to 1/20th of a standard dose. This approach allows individuals to experience the potential benefits of psilocybin without the hallucinogenic effects associated with larger doses.
In recent years, researchers, professionals, and everyday individuals alike have turned to microdosing for its reported ability to enhance creativity, improve mood, and support mental health. But what exactly is psilocybin microdosing, and what does the science say about its efficacy?
What Is Psilocybin Microdosing?
Microdosing involves consuming a small amount of psilocybin on a structured schedule. A typical microdose might range from 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms, depending on the individual’s sensitivity and goals. While it can be difficult to quantify the actual psilocybin concentration based off dry weight, the aforementioned measurements roughly correlate to subperceptual doses.
The idea behind microdosing is not to experience the classical "psychedelic trip" but to subtly enhance one’s baseline functioning. Users often report feeling a sense of clarity, heightened focus, and improved emotional balance. For some, it has even been described as a tool for achieving flow states (those moments of being fully immersed and engaged in tasks).
Potential Benefits of Psilocybin Microdosing
Although research on psilocybin microdosing is still in its early stages, anecdotal reports and emerging studies highlight several potential benefits:
Alternative Approach to Psychiatric and Medical Ailments
Many individuals who microdose report reduced feelings of anxiety and depression. In regard to other ailments in which macrodose protocols are being investigated such as PTSD, distress related to life threatening illnesses like cancer, and chronic pain, microdosing may also prove beneficial.
Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving
Artists, entrepreneurs, and professionals have turned to microdosing to boost creative thinking and innovative problem-solving. The subtle shift in perspective may help individuals approach challenges with fresh eyes.
Increased Focus and Productivity
Many anecdotally discuss the notable nootropic implications of microdosing and its ability to promote sustained attention and improved task performance.
How Does Microdosing Work?
Psilocybin’s effects on the brain are largely attributed to its interaction with serotonin receptors, which is involved in mood regulation and cognitive processes. Activity on a collection of brain structures known as the “Default Mode Network (DMN)” is perhaps even more important. The DMN amps up its activity when we aren’t engaged in mentally taxing tasks, and it’s implicated in daydreaming and self-reflection. It is also largely responsible for ruminative thoughts that can pose problems when they accompany mood and anxiety disorders. Psilocybin acts directly on the DMN helping to alleviate ruminative thoughts and negative self-reflection.
Because the effects of microdosing are more subtle than what you would expect on higher doses of psilocybin, is there actual benefit. Anecdotally, people swear by it, but there is emerging evidence supporting the potential effectiveness of microdosing and its ability to help improve depression, anxiety and promote mental wellness when used in the right context.
Outline of Microdosing Protocols
Now that we have a better understand of how psilocybin microdosing works and potential benefits, let’s discuss various protocols that are utilized.
Fadiman Protocol
This is one of the more well-known microdosing protocols. It was created by Dr. James Fadiman and is designed to observe the effects of microdosing more closely. It utilizes a 3-day cycle repeated over 4 to 8 weeks followed by 2 to 4 weeks off.
Day 1: Consume microdose
Day 2: Transition day (non-dosing day)
Day 3: Normal day (non-dosing day)
The idea here is that you experience the more acute effects of microdosing on day 1 with residual effects (known as the afterglow) on day 2. On day 3, you return to baseline before repeating the protocol. It’s generally recommended to take a 2 to 4 week break once you’ve finished the protocol. By the end of the first month, the distinctions between dosing and non-dosing days become clearer in regard to perceived effects cognitively and emotionally. However, the distinctions start to blur as you progress further into the protocol. This is thought to be due to increased neuroplasticity (your brain’s ability to change and improve connections) leading to an improved mental baseline that’s present even on non-dosing days.
Microdosing Institute Protocol
This protocol is similar to the Fadiman Protocol with the exception that there isn’t a “normal day” built into the schedule. Anecdotally, this is thought to be more beneficial when trying to address psychiatric and medical illness. The protocol is repeated over 4 to 8 weeks and followed by 2 to 4 weeks off.
Day 1: Consume microdose
Day 2: Transition day
Day 3: Consume microdose
Day 4: Transition day
Two-days-a-week Protocol
This protocol is useful for those who want to microdose with more regularity in regard to days of the week. The crucial part is to have at least one day off between dosing days. The protocol is repeated over 4 to 8 weeks and followed by 2 to 4 weeks off.
Day 1: Consume microdose (e.g. Tuesday)
Day 2: Transition day
Day 3: Normal day
Day 4: Dosing day (e.g. Friday)
There are several other protocols discussed in psychedelic circles that are slight variations on the ones listed above, but the general idea is to not consume psilocybin on a daily basis and give yourself several weeks off when the protocol is completed. It’s important to note that this is an evolving area of study. There are many things to consider such as baseline mental and emotional state, underlying illness, medical comorbidity, and treatment goal. It’s also important to note that psilocybin is only legal to use in certain jurisdictions, regardless of the dose. Because of this, we are unable to make recommendations on use outside of a legal context. More on this below.
Risks and Considerations
Legal Status: Psilocybin remains a controlled substance on a federal level. It is only allowed for legal use in several jurisdictions at present so microdosing could result in legal consequences depending on where you live.
Adverse Side Effects: For some, even small doses can cause anxiety, headaches, or gastrointestinal discomfort. There are also certain populations in which I’d generally advise against psychedelic use until further safety data is established including individuals with schizophrenia spectrum illness and bipolar disorder due to the potential to worsen psychosis and mood instability in these populations.
Lack of Regulation: Without standardized dosing or pharmaceutical-grade products, users must exercise caution when sourcing psilocybin. While it is generally recommended to dose based off dry weight, this approach doesn’t provide you with accurate information regarding the actual psilocybin concentration without sensitive testing methods.
As always, individuals should consult with a trusted healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, particularly if they have pre-existing mental health conditions or are taking medications that could interact with psilocybin.
Final Thoughts
Psilocybin microdosing offers an intriguing approach to optimizing mental health and overall well-being. While the science is still catching up to the anecdotal hype, early findings suggest that even small doses of this powerful compound can yield significant benefits when used responsibly and intentionally.
As we continue to explore the potential of psychedelics, it’s essential to approach this practice with curiosity, caution, and respect for the profound nature of these substances. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, one thing is clear: microdosing is reshaping how we think about mental health care, one small dose at a time.
Until next time!
Dr. McCall
