Micro-dosing psilocbin
contra-indications
Dr. James Fadiman and Sophia Korb have collected over 1850 reports of experiences from microdosers across 59 countries. In these reports, there were only 75 people in total (less than 4% of all participants) that reported not to have had a positive experience when microdosing. These reports have not only helped map the potential risks associated with microdosing and helped identify best harm reduction practices, but have also led Fadiman and Korb to conclude that microdosing is overwhelmingly safe for most people.
The risks of microdosing depend on the specific situation, person, and substance, and therefore it’s important to be research best practices thoroughly, institute basic harm reduction principles, and when in doubt consult a medical professional before beginning a microdosing journey.
The most well-known risks of microdosing are:
✧ Increased anxiety
✧ Increased paranoia in those prone to paranoia
✧ Increased emotional instability in those experiencing intense emotional distress such as grief
✧ Mild stomach upset and nausea
✧ Fatigue
✧ Difficulties sleeping (if taken before bed)
✧ It can cause headaches in some people
✧ Tinnitus could get worse
✧ People diagnosed with bipolar disorder reported that they benefited from microdosing during their depressive phase but would discourage it during a manic phase (please be aware, if you have bipolar, this programme is not suitable, due to Jasmin’s scope of practice)
Among Fadiman’s gathered responses of microdosers, there was not a single case of reported psychosis, a risk that requires strong consideration when taking a high dose. However, while no known anecdotal reports exist, it is important to note that this does not rule out the possibility of psychosis triggered by microdosing.
Lesser known risks of microdosing include:
Visual tracers in men with color blindness
In Dr. Fadiman’s collected reports, some men with color blindness reported seeing tracers in their field of view. Sometimes those images or lingering colors persisted for days. Not all people with color blindness experienced this, but there is a chance that it will occur.
Long-term microdosing may exacerbate pre-existing heart conditions
One potential concern for microdoses of psilocybin for people with pre-existing heart conditions was published by Dr. Kelan Thomas in 2022. This concern comes from studies demonstrating that fenfluramine, when taken daily, doubles the risk of Valvular Heart Disease. Fenfluramine binds to the same receptors as LSD and psilocybin, but the quantities used for microdosing are extremely low in comparison (several orders of magnitude less than a regular dose). More research is needed to know if this potential risk effectively translates to humans who microdose with LSD or even psilocybin.
The current stance by microdosing experts, including Dr. James Fadiman is that the microdosing protocols of 10-weeks, with a 4-week pause afterwards, are generally considered safe for those with pre-existing heart conditions. It remains important to not microdose on a daily basis. If you have a pre-existing heart condition, it’s advised to avoid extended periods of microdosing and monitor your heart functions regularly.
Tinnitus
A small number of people with tinnitus (ringing sound in the ears), reported that their tinnitus worsened during microdosing. For others, it has decreased or stayed the same.
When is microdosing not recommended?
✧ For people under the age of 18
✧ In combination with alcohol or other drugs
✧ During pregnancy or breastfeeding
✧ In combination with some medications including lithium carbonate medicine (Lithium) or Tramadol
✧ In those with a family history of psychosis + schizophrenia
✧ During periods of intense emotional instability, such as grief
✧ Men with color blindness
Those who suffer from paranoia/suspicion
Additionally, while some people with generalized or social anxiety have experienced relief from microdosing, anxiety can often be magnified and it is advised to proceed with caution and only with the support of a psychedelic-informed therapist.
General note: the full spectrum of potential risks of microdosing alongside mental or physical disorders are not yet sufficiently known.