What Is a Microdose?

How long does a microdose last? A microdose is a sub-perceptual amount of a psychedelic substance—commonly psilocybin—that is taken to enhance mood, focus, or creativity without causing a full psychedelic trip. Most users take between 0.05g and 0.3g of dried mushrooms per microdose.

At Mycological.co, we offer beginner-friendly microdose formats like mushroom gummiespsilocybin chocolates, and magic mushroom honey.

A bullet journal tracking mood, energy, and creativity next to a spoonful of psilocybin honey
Track the shift—mood, energy, and creativity through microdosing.

How Long Does a Microdose Last?

On average, the active effects of a psilocybin microdose last between 4 to 6 hours. However, some users report subtle mood boosts or afterglow feelings that last even longer.

Here’s a general timeline:

  • Onset: 30 to 60 minutes
  • Peak effects: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Come down: 3 to 6 hours
  • Afterglow: May last until bedtime or into the next day

According to a 2021 paper published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, microdoses of psilocybin typically reach peak activity around 90 minutes after ingestion and taper gradually over several hours (source).


A display of psilocybin products including gummies, chocolates, and honey with labeled cards
Choose your dose—psilocybin, your way.

What Factors Affect How Long a Microdose Lasts?

Several variables can influence how long a microdose lasts for you:

1. Dose Size

Even within microdose ranges, 0.3g will generally last longer and feel more noticeable than 0.1g.

2. Product Format

Edibles like gummies may absorb faster than capsules or dried mushrooms. Infused honey or teas may have quicker onset and a shorter duration due to rapid digestion.

3. Body Composition

Your metabolism, weight, and hydration levels all affect how long a microdose stays active in your system.

4. Food Intake

Taking a microdose on an empty stomach usually leads to faster onset. Eating before or after may delay or extend the effects.

5. Mushroom Potency

Strain and storage matter. Fresher mushrooms with high psilocybin content may produce longer-lasting effects.


What Does a Microdose Feel Like Throughout the Day?

Most users report the following pattern:

  • First Hour: Slight increase in focus, lighter mood, subtle bodily sensations
  • Mid-Day (Peak): Heightened creativity, clarity, reduced mental chatter
  • Late Afternoon: Smooth taper, calm energy, occasional fatigue
  • Evening: Clear mind, reflective mood, deeper sleep that night
Infographic showing the stages of a psilocybin microdose: onset, peak, taper, and afterglow
Know the rhythm—understand the timeline of a microdose.

As emphasized by MAPS, microdosing is not about “feeling high”—it’s about small shifts that support daily function and emotional balance.


How Often Should I Microdose?

The most common schedule is the “1 day on, 2 days off” protocol. This allows your body to reset and avoids building tolerance. Others follow the Fadiman Protocol, which includes one microdose every three days.

Listen to your body, track your experience, and adjust as needed. Many of our customers use journals to monitor changes in mood, sleep, and productivity over time.


What Do Customers Say?

“For me, the effects start within an hour and carry through most of the workday. No crash, just a slow fade.”
— Lex B., Verified Buyer

“The honey gives a mellow lift for about 5 hours. Then I just feel grounded and reflective.”
— Mia P., Customer Review


Why Buy from Mycological.co?

  • Trusted psilocybin dosing for consistent results
  • Easy-to-use formats like gummies and honey
  • Beginner-friendly products backed by education
  • Fast, discrete shipping and friendly support
  • Focus on safety, intention, and harm reduction

Explore our best-selling microdose products →


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Final Thoughts

Microdose lasts depends on the product, your body, and how you take it. For most people, the effects last 4 to 6 hours—with benefits that ripple into the rest of the day.

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FAQ

Can a microdose last all day?

Most last 4–6 hours. The mental clarity or afterglow can extend longer for some users.

Is it better to take a microdose with food?

It depends. Some people prefer taking it on an empty stomach for faster effects, while others eat first to avoid nausea.

Will I feel high the whole time?

No. Microdosing should remain sub-perceptual. You may feel slightly uplifted or focused, not intoxicated.

How often should I microdose?

Most follow a 1 day on, 2 days off schedule. Others microdose weekly or seasonally.

What product lasts the longest?

Capsules and chocolates may have a slower release, while honey and gummies kick in quicker but taper gently.