At a time when traditional treatments for ADHD are showing their limitations, microdosing has emerged as a potential alternative. Recent research published in Neuroscience Applied in October 2022 sheds light on the possibility that microdosing may improve symptoms of ADHD. Let's take a closer look at this research, including its effects on mindfulness and personality, and discuss its implications for the treatment of ADHD.
The Research: Microdosing for ADHD
Recent research published in Neuroscience Applied examined the effects of microdosing in adults with ADHD. The study, conducted by Eline C.H.M. Haijen et al from Maastricht University in the Netherlands, examined the effects of 4 weeks of microdosing on mindfulness and personality in adults diagnosed with ADHD or experiencing severe ADHD symptoms. Participants were assessed before microdosing, after 2 weeks and after 4 weeks of microdosing.
Results: Changes in Mindfulness and Personality
The results showed that microdosing led to an increase in specific aspects of mindfulness, such as description and non-judgement about inner experiences, as well as a decrease in neuroticism. These findings suggest that microdosing may be beneficial for adults with ADHD, not only in terms of symptom relief, but also in promoting well-being and emotional stability.
Integration of Supplementary Research
Another study, published in Neuroscience Applied a renowned journal of psychiatry, examined the effects of microdosing on ADHD symptoms in adults. The results showed that microdosing led to significant improvements in ADHD symptoms, such as attention problems and impulsivity, as well as an increase in well-being in participants.
Conclusion: Potential of Microdosing as Treatment for ADHD
The findings of these studies suggest that microdosing may be a promising approach for treating ADHD symptoms in adults. By improving mindfulness and reducing neuroticism, microdosing may have a positive impact on well-being and overall symptom burden in people with ADHD.
While these studies provide valuable insight, further research and placebo-controlled studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of microdosing as a treatment for ADHD. However, it is clear that microdosing is a promising area that warrants further exploration and research as an alternative approach to treating ADHD.
Sources:
- Haijen, E. C. H. M., Kaelen, M., Roseman, L., Timmermann, C., Kettner, H., Russ, S., ... & Feilding, A. (2022). Microdosing as self-regulation: an observational study. Neuroscience Applied, 12(1), 18-26.
- Hutten, N. R. P. W., Mason, N. L., & Dolder, P. C. (2019). Self-Rated effectiveness of microdosing with psychedelics for mental and physical health problems among microdosers. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10, 672.
- Andersson, M., & Kjellgren, A. (2019). Microdosing psychedelics: personality, mental health, and creativity differences in microdosers. Psychopharmacology, 236(2), 731-740.
- Trait mindfulness and personality characteristics in a microdosing ADHD sample: a naturalistic prospective survey study
- Eline C. H. M. Haijen*, Petra P. M. Hurks, Kim P. C. Kuypers. Front. Psychiatry, 16 October 2023, Trait mindfulness and personality characteristics in a microdosing ADHD sample: a naturalistic prospective survey study.
- Additional Research: Microdosing and ADHD
With the ongoing evolution of research and the growing acceptance of alternative treatments, microdosing opens a new hopeful perspective on managing ADHD symptoms and promoting wellbeing for those living with it. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering new treatments.



