Microdosing – in the case of 1S-LSD, the ingestion of tiny amounts of an LSD derivative – has experienced a veritable boom in recent years. Especially in creative industries, among startup founders, and biohackers, microdosing is considered a secret weapon for increased focus, creativity, and emotional balance. Since LSD itself is illegal in Germany and many other countries, some resort to 1S-LSD as a legal alternative. Offered in smart shops and online as a "research chemical," 1S-LSD promises similar effects to classic LSD – but without legal consequences, as long as it doesn't fall under narcotics legislation. But what exactly is 1S-LSD? How does it affect the body, particularly when microdosed? What opportunities and benefits are being discussed, what do users report from their own experience, and what does science say about it? Equally important: What are the risks , and what is the legal situation ? Below we provide a comprehensive, clearly structured overview of the current state of knowledge on 1S-LSD and microdosing – with reference to scientific studies, expert opinions and reputable sources.
Key Takeaways:
- 1S-LSD = legal LSD derivative, available since 2024.
- Microdosing (5–20 µg) is said to promote focus, creativity & mood.
- Initial studies show subtle effects; placebo plays a major role.
- Risks: Tolerance, dosage errors, headaches, sleep problems.
- Long-term effects and safety still unclear.
- Legal status: currently legal in Germany, but a grey area and subject to change at any time.
- 1. What is 1S-LSD? Chemical background and distinction from LSD & Co.
- 2. Mechanism of action in the body (especially with microdosing)
- 3. Opportunities and benefits of microdosing (concentration, creativity, emotional balance)
- 4. Subjective experiences: What do users report?
- 5. Scientific research: Current state of research on 1S-LSD and microdosing
- 6.
Risks, side effects and legal situation
- 7. Legal status of 1S-LSD
- 8. FAQs
What is 1S-LSD? Chemical background and distinction from LSD & Co.
1S-LSD (full chemical name: 1-(3-(trimethylsilyl)propionyl)-lysergic acid diethylamide) is a novel derivative of LSD from the lysergamide class. Chemically, it is LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) with a trimethylsilyl propionyl group added at the 1-position. This creates a molecule that is very similar to LSD but has been modified to circumvent existing LSD bans in many countries. In fact, 1S-LSD was specifically developed to exploit legal loopholes: it entered the market in 2024 after earlier LSD analogs, such as 1D-LSD, were banned in Germany under the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). The introduction of the trimethylsilyl group, which was not mentioned in the NpSG, allowed 1S-LSD to be offered legally at first. In short: 1S-LSD is a “legal” variant of LSD that has been structurally slightly modified so as not to be considered LSD in the legal sense.
To put this into perspective, it's worth looking at related LSD derivatives: 1P-LSD (1-propionyl-LSD), for example, is an LSD analogue known since 2015 that extends LSD by adding a propionyl group. Studies have shown that 1P-LSD is rapidly converted to LSD in the body and essentially functions as a prodrug of LSD. The subjective effects of 1P-LSD are considered almost identical to those of LSD. 1D-LSD, in turn (chemically probably 1-(1,2-dimethylcyclobutanecarbonyl)-LSD), was introduced in 2023/24 as the next generation. Users report virtually the same effects as with "original" LSD – the chemical structure is only minimally different. 1D-LSD gained some notoriety because it was even sold for a time in freely accessible vending machines (for example, in Mannheim), thus sparking a debate. Why were these derivatives legal? In Germany (and many other countries), the rule is: what is not explicitly listed as illegal is initially legal. Thus, 1D-LSD was initially legally available until June 14, 2024, when the Federal Council decided to include it in the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). Similarly, 1cP-LSD and 1V-LSD had already been banned previously. A cat-and-mouse game ensued: no sooner was one LSD derivative banned than a new one appeared on the market, chemically just outside the legal definition. 1S-LSD emerged precisely in this context – as a successor to 1D-LSD, exploiting this new legal loophole. The trimethylsilyl group (TMS) on the molecule is a strategic maneuver to circumvent current regulations.
Conclusion: 1S-LSD is a substance very similar to LSD, differing chemically only by the attached TMS-propionyl group. This modification is sufficient to make it (for now) legal without significantly altering its fundamental effects. In practice, 1S-LSD can be considered a functional analog or "designer drug" that is presumably converted back into LSD or a similarly acting metabolite in the body (similar to 1P-LSD). Users and initial reports indicate that 1S-LSD is comparable to classic LSD in effects and potency – only its legal status currently distinguishes it from its prohibited predecessor, LSD.
Mechanism of action in the body (especially with microdosing)
LSD and its derivatives primarily affect the brain's serotonergic system . Specifically, LSD binds as a partial agonist to 5-HT₂A receptors —special serotonin receptors whose activation is responsible for the psychedelic effects. In addition, LSD binds to a number of other receptors (including other serotonin subtypes such as 5-HT₁A/₂B/₂C, as well as dopamine and adrenaline receptors), which contributes to its complex effect profile. At a typical trip dose (100 µg and more), the strong 5-HT₂A activation leads to profound alterations in consciousness, hallucinations, and altered perception. But what happens at a microdose of, for example, 10–20 µg?
At such a very low dose, the same receptor systems are stimulated to a far lesser extent. The idea behind microdosing is to take enough of the drug to achieve positive, subtle effects, but not so much as to cause the classic hallucinations or "ego dissolution" of an LSD trip. This means that changes occur in the brain below the threshold of consciousness: Moderate activation of 5-HT₂A receptors can already influence mood, attention, and creativity without causing overwhelming sensory disturbances. Neuroscientific studies support the fact that even microdoses show detectable effects in the brain: For example, a placebo-controlled fMRI study with 13 µg of LSD found increased connectivity between the amygdala (the emotional center) and regions such as the frontal cortex and cerebellum. These networks are involved in emotional processing and are altered in depression—so the enhanced communication could be related to mood-enhancing effects.
Physiologically, a microdose remains far below the threshold of acute toxic effects. Studies with low doses have not observed any serious changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or body temperature. However, some users report subtle physical sensations: mild headaches, a minimally increased pulse or temperature sensation, and changes in sleep patterns. Interestingly, recent data suggest that microdosing might even improve sleep —in one study, subjects who took 20 µg of LSD slept an average of 24 minutes longer the night afterward than the placebo group. This demonstrates that microdoses are not simply ineffective but trigger a variety of subtle changes.
An important aspect is the development of tolerance : As with all psychedelics, the body adapts very quickly to LSD-like substances. With daily use, the effects diminish significantly within a few days because the serotonin receptors become less sensitive (downregulation). Therefore, experienced users recommend protocols with rest days (e.g., one day of use, two days off) to minimize tolerance development. In summary, the mechanism of action of 1S-LSD during microdosing is based on a mild but measurable activation of those brain receptors and networks that LSD also affects in high doses – albeit in a weakened form. This subtle stimulation can be sufficient to slightly modulate mood and thought without causing distortions of consciousness.
Opportunities and benefits of microdosing (concentration, creativity, emotional balance)
Proponents of microdosing with LSD or 1S-LSD point to a number of potential positive effects in everyday life. Even though the empirical evidence is still limited (more on this in the research chapter), many anecdotal reports and initial study findings agree on the following points:
- Improved concentration and productivity: Microdosers often report increased focus . Everyday tasks become easier, and mental wandering is reduced. Some compare the effect to caffeine, but without the jitters . Small placebo studies with healthy subjects have indeed shown that doses of around 5–20 µg of LSD can slightly increase attention in certain cognitive tests. No intoxicating effect occurred—the participants simply felt "awake and in the flow."
- Increased creativity and out-of-the-box thinking: Microdosing is used, particularly in creative professions, to foster new ideas. Users describe a freer flow of thoughts and a breaking of rigid thought patterns. A frequently cited (albeit small) 2021 study from Maastricht University suggested increased creativity with microdosing. Creative problem-solving tasks were reportedly solved more flexibly after a microdose of LSD. However, another study found no objective increases in creativity, except among participants who suspected they had received the active substance—which could indicate a placebo effect.
- Mood enhancement and emotional balance: Many microdose users appreciate the subtle antidepressant effect . Without producing the "euphoria" of classic drugs, they report improved mood , greater balance , and less tendency to ruminate. In surveys of users, microdosers actually score better than non-microdosers regarding symptoms of depression and anxiety . Clinical data are cautiously promising: In a placebo-controlled pilot study with individuals suffering from mild depressive tendencies, a 26 µg dose of LSD led to increased satisfaction and energy , as well as lower depression scores two days after ingestion, compared to the placebo group. However, these effects were temporary (see below).
- Increased empathy and social well-being: Users sometimes describe feeling more open and socially connected through microdosing. Minor everyday worries or social anxieties fade into the background, and conversations become easier. This effect is subjective and difficult to measure, but it fits the picture: LSD can trigger a deep sense of connection at higher doses; in micro-doses, a milder version of this could occur, leading to greater relaxation in social interactions.
- Potential therapeutic benefits: Perhaps the greatest hopes rest on the possibility that microdosing could help with mental disorders. Its applications in depression , anxiety disorders , and ADHD are being discussed. It's conceivable that regular small doses could have a mood-lifting effect and, for example, improve motivation and focus in depressed patients without the side effects of high doses of psychedelics. In practice, some affected individuals have unofficially experimented with it and reported improvements. Initial scientific studies have now been launched: for example, an open-label pilot study with depressed patients (LSD 10–20 µg several times a week) was conducted in 2022. This showed positive trends —some depression scores improved—but the lack of a control group does not constitute conclusive evidence. Research is also underway to determine whether microdosing can increase concentration in ADHD. Theoretically, this makes sense, as LSD affects similar neurotransmitters to some ADHD medications. However, results are still pending or inconsistent (an initial small study found no significant benefit compared to placebo).
Subjective experiences: What do users report?
Numerous anecdotal reports – whether in online forums, personal blogs, or stories from acquaintances – provide deep insights into the effects of microdosing 1S-LSD. These reports are, of course, anecdotal, but they present a fairly consistent picture of subjective perceptions.
In relevant forums like Reddit (r/microdosing) or the German forum Land der Träume , users predominantly describe positive everyday effects . Examples include statements like: "I feel more focused and stable," or "My creative work flows more easily." Many report that on microdosing days they are simply more productive and in a better mood —comparable to a slightly improved baseline state, without it feeling explicitly "psychedelic." Things that are usually procrastinated suddenly become easier. The aforementioned feeling of reduced social inhibitions is also highlighted by some: "Social anxieties are reduced," is the impression of one user who, thanks to microdosing, appeared more relaxed in meetings and with their team.
Of course, there are also critical voices and less positive experiences. Some users notice that after initial euphoria, the effects diminish over time: "Effects significantly weaker after a few weeks," as one forum poster noted with disappointment. This aligns with the phenomenon of tolerance development – frequent, consecutive microdosing noticeably reduces the benefit (hence the importance of breaks). Reports occasionally mention mild nervousness or headaches as side effects . Especially during the first few days of a microdosing routine, some users feel a bit "tingly" or experience minimal tension headaches, which often disappear after a short time. In rare cases, users have reported increased irritability or a drop in mood on days without microdosing – a kind of mini-withdrawal or simply the feeling that something is missing compared to the dose day.
What's interesting is that some users describe very individual effects : For example, there are reports that microdosing helps with migraines or cluster headaches – one user states that since regularly taking LSD microdoses, he has significantly fewer migraine attacks (this is also being discussed in research as a potential application). Others, however, feel hardly anything at the same dose and wonder whether it's working for them or whether they are experiencing placebo effects. This spectrum shows that the experience with microdosing is very personal and depends on many factors (set, setting, individual neurobiology).
Scientific research: Current state of studies on 1S-LSD and microdosing
Scientific research into microdosing is still in its infancy . Specifically regarding 1S-LSD as a substance, there are currently virtually no published studies – it is a new drug that has only been on the market since 2024 and primarily serves as a legal substitute. Therefore, given the current state of research, one must rely on studies of LSD itself or other analogs (such as 1P-LSD) and, of course, on studies of microdosing with classic psychedelics (e.g., psilocybin).
Over the past five years, microdosing has at least made its way into clinical trials. Some key findings from the research conducted so far:
- Acute effects: A well-controlled study (Univ. Chicago, 2020) found that 13 µg of LSD—a typical microdose— measurably improved mood . Participants reported increased euphoria and energy on the day of administration, and even 48 hours later, those who had previously experienced depression still felt slightly better compared to the placebo group. This demonstrated a short-term therapeutic effect. However, the sample size was small. Other studies confirm at least positive acute effects on mood : In a home-use experiment in England (Family et al., 2023), 20 µg of LSD led to improved mood and calmness in healthy volunteers on the day of administration , compared to a placebo.
- Cognition and creativity: The data are mixed. A study from the Netherlands (Hutten et al. 2020) tested various low doses (5, 10, 20 µg) in cognitive tasks. The result: Attention and some executive functions were slightly improved at 20 µg, whereas cognitive flexibility/creativity did not increase significantly. Interestingly, however, some participants reported increased confusion and anxiety at 20 µg—a suggestion that higher microdoses may also have undesirable effects. Another study with psilocybin microdosing found no objective improvements in creativity or well-being, except in participants who correctly guessed that they were not receiving a placebo. This strongly suggests placebo effects.
- Therapeutic benefits for clinical populations: The first true clinical trials are currently underway. An open-label pilot study (LSD-Dep1, 2022/23) administered 10–20 µg of LSD every three days for six weeks to patients with major depression. The results showed that the procedure was well tolerated and some depression scores improved during the microdosing phase—however, without a control group, placebo effects cannot be ruled out. A larger, placebo-controlled phase 2 study (LSD-Dep2) is currently underway to obtain robust data on the efficacy of LSD microdosing for depression. In the field of ADHD , the first double-blind study was conducted in 2021: Adults with ADHD received LSD microdoses for several weeks. The published results showed no significant improvement in ADHD symptoms compared to placebo. This somewhat dampens expectations, although dose and sample size may have played a role. Overall, researchers like Dr. Kim Kuypers (Maastricht University) emphasize that microdosing has not yet shown any clear benefits in clinical trials : In one of their studies, there was no difference in well-being between micro-LSD and placebo, which suggests strong expectation effects. Nevertheless, they are now looking for subgroups – perhaps some people (e.g., with certain gene variants or symptom patterns) respond to microdosing, while others do not.
- Long-term effects and neurobiology: Because most studies are short, we know little about the longer-term effects. The longest controlled study to date (6 weeks, 10 µg LSD every 3 days) found no lasting changes in EEG brain activity measures; however, detailed analyses showed subtle changes in synaptic strength in the visual cortex. This suggests very subtle neuroplastic effects. Several research groups are also investigating whether microdosing could have a similar antidepressant effect on the brain as macrodoses—for example, by promoting neuronal connections. Initial indications, such as the increase in BDNF in the blood, are interesting, but whether this is clinically relevant remains unclear. Experts are generally cautious: In 2022, Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris and colleagues posed the provocative question, “Is microdosing just a placebo?” and pointed out that many benefits reported by people are (still) not scientifically verifiable.
What do the experts say? Specialists in the field generally point out that the microdosing trend should be viewed with healthy skepticism . Dr. Matthias Liechti, who has conducted numerous LSD studies in Basel, emphasizes that there is a lack of controlled data to support claims such as "microdosing makes you more creative and focused." Existing studies show, at best, short-term effects on the day of ingestion , but no lasting improvements beyond the dosing period. For example, in trials, well-being improved only on the day of the microdose, not in the days that followed – an indication that, contrary to expectations, microdosing does not have a cumulative effect, but only provides short-term stimulation. Similarly, no reliable effect on creativity was found in objective tests.
Felix Müller, senior physician at the University Hospital of Basel and also an LSD researcher, warns against taking microdosing lightly. He argues that it is ultimately an experimental self-experiment , as long-term risks and optimal dosage schedules have not yet been scientifically established. He draws a comparison: it's like taking a drug that is still in the testing phase – without knowing exactly what side effects might occur with months of use. Hopefully, science will provide answers in the coming years. Until then, the following applies: microdosing is a fascinating field with great potential, but hard evidence for the numerous purported benefits is still lacking . Many results are anecdotal or explainable by placebo effects, which is why several large, well-controlled studies are currently being conducted. The expert opinion can perhaps be summarized as follows: microdosing is interesting and usually well-tolerated, but it is not a proven miracle cure. Anyone who tries it should have realistic expectations and keep an eye on the developments in research.
Risks, side effects and legal situation
One should be aware of these. Some apply to all LSD-like substances , others are specific to the microdosing procedure:
- Tolerance: As mentioned earlier, the body quickly becomes accustomed to LSD. With frequent use at short intervals, the effects diminish rapidly. One then either needs higher doses for the same effect or feels hardly anything at all. This is not a classic addiction phenomenon, but rather a physiological adaptation of the receptors. While the European Medicines Agency (EMCDDA) generally classifies LSD as not causing physical addiction and does not recognize withdrawal symptoms in that sense, care must still be taken with microdosing to avoid falling into a daily pattern of use that ultimately becomes ineffective (and wastes resources).
- Dosage uncertainty/overdose: A practical problem with LSD microdosing is precise dosing. LSD usually comes on pre-moistened paper sheets (blotters) containing, for example, 100 µg per square, which must be broken up for microdoses. Liquid solutions for dosing are also available. However, in both cases , you never know exactly how many micrograms you're actually taking. Even with careful measuring, a microdose can easily contain 20–30 µg instead of the desired 10 µg – which can already trigger noticeable psychedelic effects. A few µg too much can lead to surprisingly intense experiences. While there is no acute physical danger (LSD is not toxic to organs even at higher doses), such accidental "mini-trips" can significantly disrupt daily life. Imagine going to work, carefree, and then noticing visual distortions – such reports do occasionally appear in microdosing forums. Conclusion: Without drug checking and laboratory equipment, microdosing is inaccurate. Therefore, always proceed cautiously and, when in doubt, take slightly too little rather than too much.
- Psychological stress and risks: Even small amounts of a psychedelic are not completely free of psychological effects. Individuals with an unstable mental state should be particularly cautious. A microdose can exacerbate latent anxiety or trigger restlessness, especially at the beginning of use. In clinical microdose studies, some participants dropped out due to increased anxiety – demonstrating that even the smallest amounts can have an unpleasant effect on some people. Theoretically, there is also a risk that regular serotonin receptor stimulation could be problematic for individuals predisposed to psychosis (although microdoses are unlikely to trigger acute psychosis, caution is advised). Mood swings are also possible: Some users report feeling worse in their mood or lacking energy on "off" days, suggesting a rebound effect. This side effect has not yet been extensively studied.
- Physical side effects: Microdoses of LSD are generally very well tolerated by the body. No serious side effects have been observed in studies. Nevertheless, mild adverse effects can occur. Headaches are among the most common – interestingly, some report that microdosing helps with migraines, while others mention mild tension headaches as a side effect. Sleep : While one small study found an increase in sleep duration, some users complain that late-night microdosing can lead to difficulty falling asleep – presumably this varies from person to person. Gastrointestinal upset or changes in appetite are rare, but possible (serotonin receptors are also found in the digestive tract). In addition , increased heart rate and blood pressure have been reported in isolated cases, which could be consistent with the mild tension. All in all, however, the physical effects are mild and transient, provided one remains at low doses.
- Unclear long-term effects: Perhaps the biggest uncertainty lies in the long timeframes involved . Many microdosers take their mini-dose twice a week for months. For such scenarios, there is simply a lack of scientific data to assess whether this is truly safe in the long run. Experts point specifically to a potential danger: LSD and its derivatives also activate the 5-HT₂B receptor , which is found on heart muscle cells. Previously, there were medications (appetite suppressants) that caused heart valve damage through chronic 5-HT₂B stimulation. Could microdosing over a long period have a similar effect? Felix Müller explains that initially, it was suspected that repeated LSD in mini-doses might trigger changes in the heart valves, precisely because it acts on the same receptor. So far, there is no evidence for this – previous studies have found no cardiac abnormalities – but these studies only lasted a few weeks. Kim Kuypers confirms that "valvulopathy" (heart valve disease) is being discussed in connection with microdosing, even though nothing has been published yet. Until this is clarified, a residual risk remains when microdosing for months or years.
Legal status of 1S-LSD
The legality of 1S-LSD is a dynamic issue that is handled differently from country to country. As of the end of 2025, the following picture can be drawn:
- Germany: 1S-LSD is (still) legally available here. LSD itself is subject to the German Narcotics Act (BtMG) and is prohibited, but 1S-LSD is (still) not included. It is neither listed in the BtMG nor – so far – in the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). The NpSG was last amended in June 2024 to prohibit 1D-LSD and HHC. Because 1S-LSD is chemically novel (keyword: trimethylsilyl group), it was not covered by this amendment. Thus, 1S-LSD can currently be legally sold, bought, and possessed in Germany. However, many vendors exploit legal loopholes: They sell 1S-LSD as a "research chemical" or for "scientific purposes" – often with the caveat that it is not intended for human consumption (thus attempting to circumvent drug or analogy laws). Important: On June 14, 2024, the sale of 1D-LSD was banned, but possession remained legal. It is likely that future legal changes will also target 1S-LSD. Predictions from those familiar with the scene assumed that 1S-LSD would remain legal at least until mid-2025. However, since the substance has become very well-known, an amendment to the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) could occur in the foreseeable future. Until then, 1S-LSD exists in a legal gray area: legal to sell (under certain conditions), but of course not officially approved or regulated like a pharmaceutical drug.
- Austria and Switzerland: Austria has its own laws regarding new psychoactive substances (NPS), which include LSD derivatives. For example, 1V-LSD was briefly available there in 2021 before being banned. As of now, 1S-LSD is also likely to fall under the category of new psychoactive substances ; anyone seeking information in Austria should check current lists. In Switzerland, LSD analogs are generally classified as controlled substances under the Narcotics Act (BetmG) if they are converted to LSD in the body. There are indications that 1cP-LSD and similar substances are already considered prohibited there. 1S-LSD is so new that the authorities may not yet have issued a statement. However, caution is advised in this case as well.
- Other countries (EU/USA): In many countries, analogue laws or similar regulations apply. In the USA, for example, 1S-LSD could be considered an analogue of LSD and thus classified as Schedule I (illegal) as soon as it is sold for recreational use. In the EU, countries like France, Great Britain, Sweden, etc., have sometimes explicit bans on LSD analogues or general NPS regulations. For example, 1P-LSD is already illegal in several European countries. There is not yet comprehensive regulation for 1S-LSD, but it is only a matter of time before this changes. Anyone traveling internationally or ordering 1S-LSD from abroad must urgently inform themselves beforehand , as many jurisdictions impose significant penalties if the substance is classified as an LSD equivalent.
FAQs
Is 1S-LSD "the same" as LSD?
No. Structurally related, but modified (TMS at N-1). Pharmacologically similar, but not identical; direct human data are limited as of 2025.
What is meant by microdosing?
The ingestion of very small amounts, far below the classic psychedelic threshold. The goal: subtle modulation, not intense perceptual changes.
Does microdosing make you more creative and focused?
Many report subjective improvements in the short term; objectively, the results are mixed and often depend on expectations.
Is there clinical evidence (depression/ADHD)?
There are indications, but no proof. Open-label pilot studies show trends; strictly blinded studies sometimes find no superiority over placebo.
1S-LSD Microdosing – Opportunities, experiences and research will present a differentiated picture in 2025:
- Yes: There are measurable short-term signals (mood/vigilance, sometimes sleep).
- However: Sustainable benefits over weeks/months have not been proven; creativity/cognition data remain inconsistent.
- Risks: Primarily tolerance and dose variability in the microgram range, plus individual psychological reactions; long-term questions remain unanswered.
- Law: Moving target – only the current legal situation counts.
- Compass: Stay evidence-based, keep expectations realistic, be legally informed, and clarify medical questions professionally.
Transparency & Responsibility: This information is provided for neutral purposes only. It is not an invitation to take action or consume any product, does not replace medical or legal advice, and does not provide dosage recommendations.
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