A recent study suggests that microdosing LSD may not be as effective in treating depression as previously thought. Researchers at MindBio Therapeutics, an Australian biopharma company, conducted a Phase 2B trial with 89 adult patients. Results indicate that a placebo, in the form of a caffeine pill, outperformed the psychedelic in alleviating depressive symptoms.

The trial used the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) to assess patients over eight weeks. The study participants were given a small dose of LSD, ranging from 4 to 20μg. While some experienced improved well-being, their MADRS scores were worse compared to those given the caffeine placebo. This questions the efficacy of microdosing for major depressive disorder.

This finding challenges the anecdotal evidence and earlier reports that had touted microdosing as a potential treatment for depression. The CEO of MindBio Therapeutics, Justin Hanka, even stated that a cup of coffee might be more effective. This raises questions about the placebo effect and the potential overestimation of microdosing benefits.

The study's results add to the ongoing debate surrounding the use of psychedelics in mental health treatment. While some researchers remain skeptical, others are continuing to explore the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Future research will likely focus on understanding the mechanisms behind the placebo effect and exploring alternative treatments for depression.