Microdosing psychedelics: a case-study exploration of use modalities and the understanding and management of risk
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | A user of psychedelic microdosing |
| Topics | Microdosing |
| Key findings | Argues that microdosing is intertwined with themes of authenticity and identity, and reflects broader antagonisms between psychedelic culture and dominant culture. The participant's risk perceptions and management strategies are shaped by these cultural dynamics, while scientific evidence on microdosing's safety and effectiveness remains inconclusive. |
Abstract
Background: In recent years, microdosing psychedelics has been a growing phenomenon attracting media, popular and scientific attention. The practice entails the use of sub-hallucinogenic doses of psychedelics substances such as LSD and psilocybin mushrooms. Users report a multiplicity of motivations for and benefits from engaging with microdosing that run across the enhancement/therapy continuum. At the same time, scientific research remains limited and inconclusive as to microdosing’s safety and effectiveness.
Methods: The present paper draws on an extended, in-depth interview with a user of psychedelic microdosing to investigate key aspects pertaining to the practice.
Results: The discussion focuses on the participant’s engagement with different substances, their understandings of the various risks potentially involved in microdosing, and how they manage these risks.
Conclusion: The themes that emerge as significant out of these discussions relate to authenticity, identity and the broader dynamic and antagonisms between the world of psychedelics and dominant culture.