Methods

Findings

Since most studies on psychedelics have been conducted mainly on healthy individuals, their specific effects on depression remain under-studied. It is currently too early to make definitive conclusions on whether psychedelics are an effective treatment for patients with depression. However, existing findings are significant enough to warrant further research into the costs and benefits of using psychedelics as a treatment for depression.

Conclusions on the Efficacy of Psychedelics for Depression

The study reviews a number of controlled experiments that observe the effects of common psychedelics, specifically LSD and psilocybin. These drugs have been associated with increases in mood, sociality, and empathy, as well as the recognition of negative affect. In these studies, small doses—such as 100-200 mcg of LSD and 15 mg of psilocybin—have been dosed according to body weight.

Effects of LSD and Psilocybin in Controlled Experiments

It has often been claimed that psychedelics have therapeutic value in treating many types of mental health conditions such as depression. It is seen that psychedelics like LSD or psilocybin have shown subtle but positive effects on cognitive processing. Howeverm there are other side effects that are also present in the dosing of these drugs if not carefully dosed, and in lower doses. 

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Arizona State University

Microdosing is the administration of a psychedelic drug/medication at one-tenth of the dose that would cause hallucinogenic effects.

Microdosing

  Kuypers, K. P. C. (2020). The therapeutic potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1177/2045125320950567

The therapeutic Potential of microdosing psychedelics in depression

Psychedelics, in particular LSD and psilocybin, have been investigated as potential treatments for depressive symptoms. There is evidence for short-, medium-, and long-term usefulness in both micro-dosing and regular studies. In addition to the potential cognitive stimulation (LSD) or emotional well-being effects (psilocybin), these treatments are generally well-tolerated in clinical and general populations. In addition, MDMA has received breakthrough treatment status with the FDA for the treatment of PTSD.

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