Exploring Microdosing Psychedelics as a Self-Managed Treatment for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: A Qualitative Study

People with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) microdose psilocybin to manage their symptoms, and all 14 interview participants reported benefit, though their regimens and treatment goals varied widely. PMDD is a severe mood disorder with limited treatment options. Participants described how PMDD harmed their quality of life and why they turned to microdosing. The findings suggest clinical trials into microdosing psychedelics for PMDD are warranted, as current information to support people engaging in this practice is lacking.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood disorder characterised by depression, irritability, mood lability, anxiety and physical symptoms that occur exclusively in the last week/s of the menstrual cycle. With a growing global interest in microdosing of psychedelic drugs, an increase in self-medication has occurred, including by those with PMDD. Aim: Qualitative interviewing was used to explore and contextualise the practise of microdosing psychedelics for PMDD. In addition to documenting motivations, barriers and experiences we set out to determine if there is a rationale for investigating microdosing as a treatment for PMDD.Methods: 14 participants were interviewed. They were diagnosed or self-identifying as having PMDD or they self-rated their PMS mood symptoms as severe. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to guide recorded interviews which were transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.Results: Participants provide a rich account of their PMDD and how it impacted their quality of life. All participants microdosed with psilocybin. There was a striking variability in regimen as well as variability in treatment goals. Overall, all participants found benefit to their PMDD with microdosing. Conclusion: People are microdosing with psilocybin to manage their PMDD and while experiences were variable, they were generally positive. Information to support people engaging in this practise is lacking. Given the experiences of these participants and that PMDD is a potentially devastating disorder with limited treatments options, clinical trials into the potential of microdosing psychedelics to treat PMDD symptoms and improve the overall wellbeing of those affected is warranted.