Psychedelics have entered the mainstream in a big way: investors are pouring in billions, scientific research is booming, and public acceptance is growing. Yet, understanding how people use these substances can be tricky due to gaps in the data.
Two recent reports shed light on current trends. They reveal that psilocybin-containing products, like gummies, are now the most popular choice. Many people are opting to microdose, taking a tiny amount rather than a full dose.
Eric Leas, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Diego, found a massive 1,250% increase in internet searches about microdosing since 2015. By 2019, searches for psilocybin outpaced those for LSD.
Another report from the RAND Corporation estimates that about 3% of Americans — around 8 million adults — used psilocybin in the past year, making it the most popular hallucinogen in 2023. This came as a surprise to Beau Kilmer, the lead author of the study, because psilocybin use had overtaken other popular psychedelics like MDMA (ecstasy) and LSD.
The Impact of Decriminalization
Nearly half of those who tried psilocybin last year chose to microdose. This trend is popular among tech workers and suburban moms. Microdosing usually involves taking about 1/10 to 1/20th of a full dose.
Psilocybin gummies are becoming a favorite method. Most people who microdose do so only once or twice a year, but about 11% do it more than six times. While more than half consume psilocybin in “whole, fresh, or dried mushrooms,” a growing number are turning to processed forms like gummies and chocolate bars.
The interest in microdosing seems to rise in states with more liberal drug policies. For instance, Oregon and Colorado, which have decriminalized plant-derived psychedelics, show higher interest in microdosing.
Psychedelic Gummies as a New Trend
Joseph Palamar, an epidemiologist at NYU Langone Health, notes an increase in psilocybin availability, especially in gummy form. He cautions that while internet search history is useful, it doesn’t tell the full story of actual usage.
In New York City’s nightlife scene, which often reflects broader trends, psilocybin use has surged, surpassing other drugs like ecstasy and ketamine.
The Need for Better Data
Dr. Deborah Hasin, an epidemiologist at Columbia University, highlights the need for better data to understand how people use psychedelics, where they get them, and what they know about the substances. Current national data doesn’t specifically ask about psilocybin use, which limits our understanding of the market and potential health impacts.
A Booming and Understudied Market
According to the RAND survey, people use psilocybin primarily for fun and social enjoyment, mental health, and personal development. Dr. Joshua Woolley from UCSF points out that microdosing is quite different from the high-dose, psychotherapy-supported model used in clinical trials for mental health treatment.
A recent review suggests microdosing may improve mood and cognition. Still, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. Kilmer believes the U.S. is at a turning point with psychedelics, similar to where cannabis was in 2012. The federal government must decide whether to get involved in shaping state markets or remain on the sidelines.
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