Microdosing Gains Popularity Amid Eased Restrictions on Psychedelics and Cannabis in America

In recent years, microdosing has gained popularity among Americans. This practice involves consuming small doses of psychedelics in an effort to boost cognition, mood, and overall well-being without inducing the intense hallucinogenic effects normally associated with these drugs. According to a recent study, this rising interest coincides with the relaxation of cannabis and psychedelic regulations in various states.

The Rise of Microdosing

Over the past decade, microdosing has transitioned from a fringe activity to a mainstream practice. According to a study from the University of California San Diego, published in JAMA Health Forum, Google searches related to microdosing have grown by an astounding 1250% from 2015 to 2023. This surge is a direct reflection of the loosening local, state, and federal regulations on cannabis and psychedelics.

Microdosing involves consuming very small amounts of psychedelics, such as LSD or psilocybin mushrooms, typically around one-twentieth to one-fifth of a full dose. These sub-perceptual doses are taken regularly, often over a prolonged period, with the goal of reaping cognitive and emotional benefits without the intense psychotropic effects.

Proponents of microdosing claim it offers numerous benefits, including improved mood, increased creativity, enhanced focus, and reduced anxiety. Although limited clinical evidence supports these claims, anecdotal reports and some preliminary studies suggest that microdosing can indeed positively affect mental health and cognitive function.

The significant increase in public interest in microdosing can be largely attributed to recent legislative changes outlined in the study. Since 2012, when Colorado became the first state to legalize recreational cannabis, many other states have followed suit. By 2023, 24 states had legalized recreational cannabis, and eight states had decriminalized psychedelic use or authorized psychedelic-assisted therapy.

How Policy Changes Are Influencing Interest

The relationship between policy changes and public interest in microdosing is evident. The study from the University of California San Diego used a dynamic event-time difference-in-difference model to analyze the effects of these policy changes. The results showed that states with more permissive policies, like Oregon and Colorado, saw the largest increases in microdosing-related searches.

By analyzing Google search data, researchers gauged public interest in microdosing more accurately. The study found that microdosing searches per 10 million Google queries increased significantly in states with relaxed cannabis and psychedelic laws. This method offers a unique perspective on how policy changes can drive interest in specific behaviors.

The study also highlighted a shift in the substances commonly associated with microdosing. Between 2015 and 2018, LSD was the most frequently searched term related to microdosing. However, from 2019 to 2023, mushrooms (psilocybin) took the lead. Other substances like Adderall, DMT, ketamine, and MDMA also appeared in the searches.

Appeal of Microdosing

The appeal of microdosing lies in its benefits and the changing societal attitudes towards psychedelics and cannabis. With more states decriminalizing these substances and recognizing their potential therapeutic uses, public perception is shifting toward acceptance and curiosity.

Many see microdosing as an alternative or complement to traditional mental health treatments. With increasing rates of depression and anxiety and a growing dissatisfaction with conventional medications, microdosing offers a glimmer of hope for those seeking new solutions.

Despite the growing interest, microdosing remains a legally gray area. Most substances used for microdosing, like psilocybin and LSD, are still classified as Schedule I controlled substances. This classification poses legal risks for users and raises concerns about product safety and purity due to the lack of manufacturing standards.

Experts emphasize the importance of conducting rigorous clinical studies to establish the safety and efficiency of micro-dosing. Dr. Kevin Yang, a psychiatry resident at UC San Diego School of Medicine and lead author of the study, noted that understanding the risks and benefits is crucial to ensure people have access to safe and effective treatments.

“As public interest in using psychedelics and cannabis for health grows, it’s crucial that the medical community conducts studies to establish a strong evidence base for their safety and efficacy. Without understanding the risks and benefits, people may turn to unproven alternative therapies, exposing themselves to potential dangers. It’s our responsibility as a medical community to ensure patients have access to safe, effective and evidence-based treatments.”