Microdosing and Antidepressants

What is a “Breakthrough”?

Antidepressants called Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), work by blocking the creation of new serotonin at the synapse level to create a closed-loop serotonin system. This synapse blockage can persist for years, well after you stop taking the antidepressant. (An excellent book on this is “Anatomy of an Epidemic” by Robert Whitaker)

Because of this blockage, people who are currently on antidepressants or who have taken them in the past, no matter how long ago, often have trouble feeling anything from the psilocybin. We call it the Nothing Burger effect.

For those people, a one-time higher dose of psilocybin is sometimes needed to break through the blockage so an effect can be felt. We use a measured dose, measured increase protocol to get to a breakthrough. Once you have had the breakthrough, it is essential to reduce the psilocybin dose down by half or more. When those synapses start firing again, normal microdose amounts (1-5mgs) usually work fine.

Yes, you can start microdosing while on antidepressants. Antidepressants should only be tapered or stopped under the supervision of the prescribing physician.

In General:

People who have allergies or hay fever often need smaller microdoses. Start with the Functional Blend nano-dose powders, as you can easily adjust the dose. Or try ½ a Honey Stick before moving on to the capsules.

People who are taking or have previously taken antidepressants often need larger microdoses. Start with standard milligram capsules and increase until you feel an effect. If you still feel nothing after taking 3 capsules at once, move on to the higher milligram capsule formulas.

If you have both hay fever and take antidepressants, start with the standard milligram capsules, and use a measured dose measured increase protocol until you have an effect. You can take a capsule in the AM and “top up” if the effect wears off with powders or honey in your afternoon coffee or tea.