Welcome to The Dose—Your new go-to newsletter for all things microdosing! Let’s dive in…

SSRIs & Microdosing: What to Know 🍄

150+ of you joined us live for our webinar with Tricycle Day and Third Wave, and the most asked question? How SSRIs and microdosing interact.

SSRIs (like Prozac, Lexapro, and Zoloft) are some of the most widely prescribed antidepressants. While lifesaving for many, they can also come with significant drawbacks like emotional blunting, decreased libido, weight gain, and sleep disturbances.

"SSRIs helped me survive, but not thrive."

This is a sentiment shared by many in our community. Research shows that the response rate to SSRIs is as low as 40%—fewer than half of those on SSRIs experience benefits.

So, if you're curious about the topic of microdosing and SSRIs, we’ve answered our 3 most common questions below 👇

🍄 FAQ: What are the key differences between SSRIs and microdosing?

Answer: Both SSRIs and microdosing engage the serotonin system, but in different ways. SSRIs, primarily used for symptom management, provide immediate relief by "blunting" emotional intensity, which can be crucial in cases like suicidality. However, SSRIs alone don’t address the root causes of mental health conditions.

In contrast, studies have shown that low doses of psilocybin can improve symptoms of depression, mood, mental stability, focus, and daily functioning, among other benefits.

Microdosing goes beyond the substance and relief—it’s a holistic practice focused on long-term mental health improvements. Many microdosers explore the underlying causes of their distress, leading to lasting shifts in well-being and personal growth.

🍄 FAQ: Can microdosing be an alternative to SSRIs?

Answer: While microdosing isn’t a direct replacement for SSRIs, it offers an alternative path towards mental well-being.

Some reasons why people may opt for microdosing over SSRIs include: 👇

• Fewer side effects compared to prescription medications

• Less habit-forming with a lower risk of dependency

• Improved emotional well-being and daily functioning

• Supports social connection and reduces anxiety

• Complements other wellness practices like meditation and therapy

• Dosing and protocols are flexible and can be tailored to the individual

🍄 FAQ: Is it safe to stay on SSRIs and microdose?

Answer: Combining SSRIs and microdosing can pose risks. While some report no issues, there’s potential for serotonin syndrome—an overstimulation of serotonin receptors, which can be dangerous.

On the other hand, SSRIs and low-dose psilocybin have been studied together in controlled settings with mixed results. Some research suggests SSRIs might weaken psilocybin’s effects, while other studies show that combining the two could actually offer a safe therapeutic boost.

Proof that more funding for microdosing research is needed to fully understand its potential… 👀

📣 We’d Love Your Input!

As we advocate for safe, legal microdosing access, we’re building resources to guide you through this mental health revolution—and we want you involved!

What are your microdosing questions? 

Reply to this email, and we’ll include it in our future resources.

Thanks for reading! We’ll catch you in our next newsletter.

- With love from team Microdosing Collective 🍄

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DISCLAIMER: This newsletter is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a replacement for professional medical advice. Please be aware that the use, possession, and distribution of psychedelic substances are illegal in many countries and could lead to legal consequences.