By Dr. Lena Voss — Last updated: April 6, 2026

A single methyl group at position 1 of the indole ring — that's the difference between a controlled substance and a legally researchable compound. What appears at first glance to be a minor chemical detail has opened up an entire field of research that has been growing steadily since 2015. Today, in April 2026, the world of LSD derivatives encompasses a remarkable variety of substances with distinct profiles, potencies, and legal classifications.

This guide is your central reference point — whether you're encountering LSD derivatives for the first time or have been researching for years. We cover everything: fundamentals, pharmacology, the current derivatives, dosage, legal status, safety, and much more. And yes, I'll try to explain it all in a way that leaves you not just more informed, but also knowing where to continue reading.

1. [What Are LSD Derivatives?](#what-are-lsd-derivatives)
2. [The Prodrug Mechanism: How Derivatives Work](#prodrug-mechanism)
3. [Key LSD Derivatives at a Glance](#derivatives-overview)
4. [Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology](#mechanism-pharmacology)
5. [Dosage Forms: Blotters, Pellets, and Drops](#dosage-forms)
6. [Dosage: From Micro to Macro](#dosage)
7. [Legal Status in DACH and Europe](#legal-status)
8. [Quality and Safety](#quality-safety)
9. [Microdosing with LSD Derivatives](#microdosing)
10. [Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)](#faq)
11. [Glossary of Key Terms](#glossary)

LSD derivatives are chemically modified variants of LSD-25 (lysergic acid diethylamide), in which an additional molecular group is attached at the nitrogen position N1 of the indole ring. This modification alters the chemical structure just enough to create an independent compound — which is then converted back into LSD-25 within the body. Experts call such compounds "prodrugs": substances that only develop their actual effects after metabolic conversion.

Sounds complicated? Think of it like a package delivered in special wrapping. The wrapping (the attached molecular group) protects the contents (LSD-25) during transit. Only when your body "opens" the package — enzymatically cleaving the protective group — is the actual active substance released.

The history of LSD derivatives doesn't begin, as you might assume, in an underground lab, but in academic research. Chemists were already synthesizing the first LSD analogues for research purposes back in the 1980s. The real boom, however, started in 2015, when 1P-LSD entered the market and electrified the research community. Since then, a veritable carousel of derivatives has developed — with new compounds responding to regulatory changes while simultaneously fueling scientific curiosity.

Since 2015, at least 7 different LSD derivatives have been made available to the broader research community. Each with its own chemical signature, its own potency profile, and — this is the pragmatic part — its own legal classification.

For an even deeper dive into the fundamentals, I recommend our article [What Are LSD Derivatives?](https://lsd-derivate.com/was-sind-lsd-derivate). And if you're completely new, the [Beginner's Guide](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-einsteiger) is your ideal starting point — there we explain everything without assuming any prior knowledge.

The prodrug mechanism is the heart of LSD derivatives research and also the reason this field exists at all. The principle is elegant: a protective group is attached at position N1 of the LSD molecule. This protective group is cleaved in the body — primarily in the liver, but also in blood serum — through enzymatic hydrolysis. What remains is LSD-25.

The speed of this conversion varies depending on the derivative. A study by Brandt et al. (2017) in the journal "Drug Testing and Analysis" showed that 1P-LSD hydrolyzes to LSD-25 in vitro within minutes. The in vivo kinetics (i.e., in a living organism) are more complex, but the available data suggests that conversion occurs relatively quickly for most derivatives — typically within the first 30-60 minutes after oral intake.

Why Prodrugs and Not Simply LSD-25?

Good question. Three reasons:

1. Regulatory independence: Since the derivatives have a different chemical structure than LSD-25, they don't automatically fall under the same prohibitions. They are independent compounds — at least until legislators individually schedule them.

2. Potentially altered pharmacokinetics: The protective group influences how quickly the substance is absorbed and converted by the body. This may affect onset, duration, and possibly the subjective experience. Initial research findings suggest that some derivatives may have a slightly slower onset than LSD-25 — which many researchers perceive as more pleasant.

3. Scientific interest: Studying prodrug mechanisms provides valuable insights for pharmacology as a whole. How the body handles different protective groups is a field of research that extends far beyond LSD derivatives.

The conversion rate varies between individual derivatives. Roughly estimated, the bioavailability of most LSD derivatives is 80-100% relative to LSD-25 — meaning that 100 mcg of a derivative could effectively yield 80-100 mcg of LSD-25 equivalent. However, the exact values are substance-dependent and have not been precisely quantified for all derivatives.

For those who truly want to understand the prodrug mechanism in detail, our article [What Is a Prodrug?](https://lsd-derivate.com/was-ist-ein-prodrug) provides the complete scientific explanation — including diagrams and source references.

The world of LSD derivatives is more colorful than you might initially think. As of April 2026, there are two currently legally researchable derivatives in Germany (1BP-LSD and 1Fe-LSD) along with a series of historical derivatives that are now covered by the NpSG (Neue-psychoaktive-Stoffe-Gesetz — New Psychoactive Substances Act). Here's the overview — from newest to oldest.

3.1 Currently Legal Derivatives (Germany, as of April 2026)

1BP-LSD (1-Butanoyl-Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)

1BP-LSD carries a butanoyl group (a four-carbon chain) at the N1 position. It entered the market in late 2023 and has since established itself as one of the most popular research chemicals in the DACH region. The community frequently describes its profile as "balanced" — with a gentle onset and an estimated total duration of 8-12 hours.

Experience reports from the community suggest that 1BP-LSD may exhibit similar potency to its predecessor 1V-LSD at comparable dosages. The estimated equivalence is approximately 1:1 to LSD-25, though individual reports vary. Around 73% of participants in a community survey on lsd-derivate.com rated their research experience with 1BP-LSD as "positive" or "very positive."

Available dosage forms: Blotters (typically 100-225 mcg), pellets (typically 10-20 mcg for microdosing), drops.

All the details can be found in our specialized articles:

• [What Is 1BP-LSD?](https://lsd-derivate.com/was-ist-1bp-lsd) — Substance profile with all the facts
• [1BP-LSD Effects](https://lsd-derivate.com/1bp-lsd-wirkung) — Detailed effects report
• [1BP-LSD Experience Report](https://lsd-derivate.com/1bp-lsd-erfahrungsbericht) — Voices from the community
• [1BP-LSD Dosage](https://lsd-derivate.com/1bp-lsd-dosierung) — From microdosing to macrodose

1Fe-LSD (1-Formyl-Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)

1Fe-LSD — the "Fe" stands for the formyl group — is the newest addition to the derivatives family. With its minimalist single-carbon protective group, it is structurally the "leanest" of all known derivatives. This small protective group could, according to the hypothesis, lead to particularly rapid metabolization. The molecular weight of 1Fe-LSD is approximately 351 g/mol — for comparison: LSD-25 has 323 g/mol.

The community often describes 1Fe-LSD as "clear-headed" and "focused." Whether this is due to faster metabolism or subjective expectation effects has not yet been conclusively determined scientifically. What the data shows: 1Fe-LSD received a somewhat higher rating for "cognitive clarity" in community surveys than 1BP-LSD — 4.2 out of 5 stars versus 3.8 out of 5 stars.

Available dosage forms: Blotters, pellets, drops — the range is similarly broad to that of 1BP-LSD.

Here are the specialized articles:

• [What Is 1Fe-LSD?](https://lsd-derivate.com/was-ist-1fe-lsd) — The complete substance profile
• [1Fe-LSD Effects](https://lsd-derivate.com/1fe-lsd-wirkung) — What research shows so far
• [1Fe-LSD Experience Report](https://lsd-derivate.com/1fe-lsd-erfahrungsbericht) — Community reports and analysis

1BP-LSD vs. 1Fe-LSD: Which One Suits You?

The question that occupies our research community the most. Short answer: there is no objectively "better" derivative — it depends on what you expect from your research experience. 1BP-LSD tends to be described as "warmer" and "more emotional," 1Fe-LSD as "more analytical" and "clearer." But caution: these are community tendencies, not confirmed pharmacological differences.

The full comparison — with tables, pros/cons, and recommendations — can be found in our article [1BP-LSD vs. 1Fe-LSD: The Complete Comparison](https://lsd-derivate.com/1bp-lsd-vs-1fe-lsd).

And if you want to know which derivative performs best overall in 2026, read our [Best LSD Derivative 2026](https://lsd-derivate.com/bestes-lsd-derivat-2026) — with ratings across 6 categories.

3.2 Historical Derivatives (Prohibited in Germany)

The following overview is primarily of historical and scientific interest. These derivatives are subject to the NpSG in Germany and may no longer be traded. We list them because they contribute to understanding the evolution of derivatives and continue to be referenced in international research.

1P-LSD (1-Propanoyl-LSD)

The pioneer. 1P-LSD appeared in 2015 as the first widely available LSD derivative and paved the way for all successors. The propanoyl protective group (three-carbon chain) was validated as an effective prodrug in a study by Brandt et al. (2017). 1P-LSD was so influential that it was examined in at least 12 scientific publications between 2015 and 2020. Scheduled in Germany since July 2019 under the NpSG.

1cP-LSD (1-Cyclopropanoyl-LSD)

The successor to 1P-LSD, appearing in 2019. The cyclopropanoyl group (a ring-shaped three-carbon structure) was considered an elegant solution after the 1P-LSD ban. Community reports described a similarly gentle onset as with 1P-LSD. Scheduled in Germany since June 2021 under the NpSG.

1V-LSD (1-Valeroyl-LSD)

Also known as "Valerie" in the community. With its valeroyl group (five-carbon chain), 1V-LSD was the longest of the "classic" acyl derivatives. Notably: 1V-LSD had the longest legal period of any derivative in Germany — from 2021 to October 2022. During this time, it established itself as the most thoroughly researched derivative of the second generation.

1D-LSD and 1S-LSD

The shortest-lived representatives. 1D-LSD (1-Decanoyl-LSD) stood out due to its unusually long fatty acid chain (10 carbon atoms), which raised questions regarding bioavailability. 1S-LSD was available for only a few months. Both were scheduled under the NpSG in 2023.

3.3 Comparison Table of All LSD Derivatives

Potency figures are based on community reports and analogical reasoning, not on controlled clinical trials.

An even more detailed comparison of potencies can be found in our [Potency Comparison of All LSD Derivatives](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-potenz-vergleich).

And for the broader context: [Lysergamides Explained](https://lsd-derivate.com/lysergamide-erklaert) illuminates the entire substance class to which LSD derivatives belong.

All LSD derivatives exert their effects through the same central mechanism: activation of the serotonin receptor 5-HT2A in the brain. This receptor is the master switch for psychoactive effects — and simultaneously one of the most fascinating research subjects in modern neuroscience. In 2024, over 200 peer-reviewed studies were published worldwide that dealt with the 5-HT2A receptor and its ligands.

4.1 The 5-HT2A Receptor: The Key Player

When LSD-25 (released after metabolization from the derivative) binds to the 5-HT2A receptor, something remarkable happens: the molecule docks on and stays there for an unusually long time. Roth et al. showed in a landmark study in 2017 (published in "Cell") that LSD triggers a so-called "lid" conformation — the receptor essentially closes over the molecule and holds it in place. This extraordinarily long binding duration of several hours explains why the effects of LSD derivatives can last 8-12 hours.

The consequence of this receptor activation is increased connectivity between brain regions that normally operate separately. Imaging studies (fMRI) reveal an "entropic brain" — more interconnection, more flexibility, fewer fixed patterns. This could explain why experience reports so frequently describe "new perspectives" and "broken thought patterns."

4.2 Pharmacological Profile of LSD Derivatives

What many people don't know: LSD-25 doesn't interact solely with the 5-HT2A receptor. It also binds to 5-HT1A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and various dopamine receptors (D1, D2). This broad receptor profile explains the diversity of effects — from visual changes to mood fluctuations to physical sensations.

Initial research findings suggest that the various derivatives should show an identical receptor profile to LSD-25 after metabolization — since the same active compound is released. Differences in subjective reports could be attributed to the different pharmacokinetics: how quickly the protective group is cleaved influences the speed of onset and possibly the peak plasma concentration.

4.3 Neuroplasticity: The Big Promise

One of the most exciting research areas is the effect of LSD-25 on neuroplasticity — the brain's ability to form new neural connections. A widely cited study by Ly et al. (2018, published in "Cell Reports") showed that LSD-25 and other psychedelics can promote the growth of dendrites (cellular extensions) in nerve cells — comparable to the nerve growth factor BDNF.

These findings have massively fueled interest in microdosing protocols. The hypothesis: if even a single dose can boost neuroplasticity, what could a structured, long-term microdosing protocol achieve? The research is still in its early stages here — and that's precisely what makes it so exciting. More on this in our article [LSD and Neuroplasticity](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-neuroplastizität).

For an even deeper immersion into receptor biology, I recommend our specialized article [Serotonin and the 5-HT2A Receptor](https://lsd-derivate.com/serotonin-5ht2a-rezeptor).

LSD derivatives are available in three common dosage forms: blotters (blotting paper tabs), pellets (small compressed tablets), and drops (liquid solution). Each form has specific advantages and disadvantages regarding dosing accuracy, shelf life, and handling. Approximately 65% of all orders in German research chemical shops are for blotters, 25% for pellets, and 10% for drops, according to industry estimates.

5.1 Blotters (Tabs)

Blotters are the "classic" format: small pieces of blotting paper (typically 6x6 mm to 10x10 mm) that are soaked with a defined amount of the derivative. They are easy to handle, discreet, and remarkably stable when stored correctly.

Typical dosages: 100 mcg, 150 mcg, 200 mcg, 225 mcg — depending on the supplier and derivative.

Advantages:

• Easy handling and storage
• Easily divisible for dose adjustments (halving, quartering)
• Visually appealing designs (art on blotting paper — yes, this is a real collector's hobby)
• Best shelf life under optimal conditions (cool, dark, dry)

Disadvantages:

• Dosing accuracy depends on the quality of the laying process
• Not ideal for precise microdosing (even a quarter of a 100 mcg blotter is still 25 mcg — too much for most microdosing protocols)
• Sensitive to moisture, UV light, and heat

5.2 Pellets (Micro-Tablets)

Pellets are small, solid compressed tablets — typically 2-3 mm in diameter. They are primarily used for microdosing and offer high dosing accuracy thanks to the controlled manufacturing process. The typical pellet dosage is 10-20 mcg, making them ideal for microdosing protocols.

Advantages:

• High dosing accuracy (typically +/- 5% deviation with reputable manufacturers)
• Ideal for microdosing — no need to cut blotters
• Longer shelf life than blotters, as they are less surface-sensitive
• Easy to transport and store

Disadvantages:

• Less common than blotters
• Not divisible (you get the full pellet dose or nothing)
• Generally more expensive per microgram than blotters

5.3 Drops (Liquid Solution)

Drops consist of the derivative dissolved in a carrier liquid (typically distilled water or an ethanol-water mixture). They are dosed using a pipette or dropper bottle and offer the highest flexibility in dosing.

Advantages:

• Maximum dosing flexibility (stepless dosing possible)
• Ideal for volumetric dosing
• Faster onset than blotters (sublingual absorption in approximately 15-20 minutes vs. 30-45 minutes orally)

Disadvantages:

• Shorter shelf life than blotters or pellets
• Requires careful storage (light protection, refrigeration recommended)
• Dosing accuracy depends on dropper precision

5.4 Which Form for Which Purpose?

A detailed comparison of all dosage forms can be found in our article [Blotters vs. Pellets vs. Drops](https://lsd-derivate.com/blotter-vs-pellets-vs-tropfen).

Correct dosage is probably the most intensely discussed topic in our research community — and for good reason. The span between a microdose (barely perceptible) and a high research dose (intensely perceptible) is only a few dozen micrograms. For context: 1 microgram (mcg) is one millionth of a gram — we're talking about substance quantities that are invisible to the naked eye.

6.1 Dosage Ranges at a Glance

6.2 Conversion Factors Between Derivatives

Since each derivative has a different molecular weight (due to the differently heavy protective groups), 100 mcg of one derivative is not equal to 100 mcg of another — at least theoretically. In practice, the differences for the current derivatives are relatively minor:

These values are estimates based on molecular weight calculations and community reports. They are not clinically validated data.

The data shows that 1BP-LSD and 1Fe-LSD exhibit very similar potency at the same microgram dosage. The potency comparison of all derivatives is broken down in detail in our article [LSD Derivatives Potency Comparison](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-potenz-vergleich).

6.3 Microdosing Dosage

For microdosing — defined as the application of sub-perceptual doses — the sweet spot for most LSD derivatives lies between 5 and 20 mcg. The golden rule established by James Fadiman in his research: a microdose should be low enough that you can manage your daily life completely normally. If you notice your perception changing, it was too much.

An estimated 15-20% of LSD derivative researchers in Europe primarily use microdosing protocols — with an upward trend. The most popular protocols are the Fadiman Protocol (1 day dose, 2 days rest) and the Stamets Protocol (4 days dose, 3 days rest).

More on microdosing can be found in our comprehensive [Microdosing Guide](https://lsd-derivate.com/microdosing-guide) — the second pillar page of our blog.

6.4 The Seven Biggest Dosing Mistakes

Because dosing errors are the most common cause of negative research experiences, we've compiled the classic mistakes in a separate article: [7 Beginner Mistakes with LSD Derivatives](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-anfänger-fehler). In brief:

1. Too high a first dose ("My friend also took 200 mcg")
2. Redosing during the experience (tolerance kicks in after just 30 minutes)
3. Imprecise cutting of blotters
4. No breaks between research sessions (tolerance buildup)
5. Mixing different derivatives without understanding cross-tolerance
6. Dosing by "feel" instead of by scale or volumetric method
7. Not accounting for individual differences (body weight, metabolism, medications)

The legal classification of LSD derivatives is a topic that changes regularly — and that's exactly why it's one of the most important sections of this guide. As of April 2026, the situation in the three DACH countries is regulated differently. A fundamental understanding of the legal landscape is essential for every member of our research community.

7.1 Germany

In Germany, the Neue-psychoaktive-Stoffe-Gesetz (NpSG — New Psychoactive Substances Act) has regulated the handling of psychoactive substances not listed in the Betaeubungsmittelgesetz (BtMG — Narcotics Act) since November 2016. The NpSG prohibits the marketing of substances that produce psychoactive effects and can be assigned to certain substance groups.

Status April 2026:

• 1BP-LSD: Not covered by the NpSG or BtMG — legally researchable
• 1Fe-LSD: Not covered by the NpSG or BtMG — legally researchable
• 1P-LSD, 1cP-LSD, 1V-LSD, 1D-LSD, 1S-LSD: Covered by the NpSG — prohibited
• LSD-25: Listed in BtMG, Schedule I — prohibited

The NpSG is updated at irregular intervals. The last major expansion in the area of lysergamides occurred in autumn 2023. Historically, 12-24 months pass between a new derivative's appearance and its inclusion in the NpSG — but that is a historical observation, not a guarantee.

7.2 Austria

Austria regulates through the Neue-Psychoaktive-Substanzen-Gesetz (NPSG — New Psychoactive Substances Act), which follows a similar system to the German NpSG but works with its own substance group definitions. The legal classification of individual derivatives may therefore differ between Germany and Austria.

Status April 2026: The derivatives currently legal in Germany (1BP-LSD, 1Fe-LSD) also exist in a legal gray zone to legal zone in Austria — the specific classification is not always clear-cut. We expressly recommend reading our detailed article.

7.3 Switzerland

Switzerland has its own regulatory regime through the Bundesgesetz über die Betaeubungsmittel und die psychotropen Stoffe (BetmG — Federal Act on Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances) and its associated ordinances. Swiss legislation works partly with structural group definitions that may be broader than the German or Austrian regulations.

Status April 2026: The legal situation in Switzerland is more complex and requires individual assessment. Details can be found in our country guide.

7.4 Rest of Europe and International

The legal situation varies significantly from country to country. Some EU states have their own analogue legislation, while others work with explicit prohibition lists. In the Netherlands, for example, the situation is traditionally more liberal than in Scandinavia. The EMCDDA (European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction — renamed EUDA since 2024) monitors the European market for new psychoactive substances and regularly publishes status reports. In its 2025 annual report, over 950 new psychoactive substances were recorded in European monitoring.

The complete country guide with traffic-light system can be found in our third pillar page: [LSD Derivatives Legal Status Europe](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-legal-europa). For the specifically German situation, we also recommend: [LSD Derivatives Legal in Germany 2026](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-legal-deutschland-2026) and [LSD Derivatives in Austria and Switzerland](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-oesterreich-schweiz).

Quality and safety are the two pillars on which responsible research stands. In a market not subject to the strict quality controls of the pharmaceutical industry, informed action is all the more important. Estimates suggest that approximately 15-25% of research chemicals offered on the gray market (not from reputable suppliers) do not contain the declared substance or deviate significantly in dosage. With reputable suppliers offering lab testing, this error rate drops below 3%.

8.1 Lab Testing: Why Certificates of Analysis Matter

A reputable supplier provides a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for every batch. This certificate is produced by an independent laboratory and confirms:

• Identity: Is the declared substance actually present?
• Purity: What is the purity level? (Typically >98% with reputable manufacturing)
• Dosage: Does the stated microgram amount per unit match?
• Contaminants: Are unwanted byproducts or foreign substances detectable?

The most common analytical methods are HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry). Both methods can identify and quantify substances down to the nanogram range.

8.2 Proper Storage

LSD derivatives are sensitive to three enemies: light, heat, and moisture. With correct storage, they remain stable for months to years. Here are the ground rules:

The 3 Enemies:

1. UV light — degrades the lysergic acid structure. Solution: aluminum foil, light-tight containers
2. Heat — accelerates degradation processes. Solution: cool storage (refrigerator ideal, room temperature acceptable)
3. Moisture — promotes hydrolysis. Solution: silica gel packets, airtight packaging

With optimal storage (cool, dark, dry, airtight), a blotter retains over 90% of its potency for at least 12 months. Our comprehensive storage guide can be found in the article [How to Store LSD Blotters Properly](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-blotter-richtig-lagern).

8.3 Harm Reduction: The Golden Rules

Harm reduction is not a buzzword but an attitude: the conviction that informed research is safer research. Our safer-use specialist Dr. Saya Okonkwo has compiled the most important principles for our research community:

The 10 Golden Rules of Research Safety:

1. Start low, go slow — Always begin with a lower dose than you think necessary
2. Know your substance — Check the certificate of analysis, research the supplier
3. Set & Setting — Your inner state (set) and external environment (setting) significantly determine the research experience
4. No mixing — Combinations with other substances (including alcohol, medications) increase the risk profile incalculably
5. Plan a sitter — Having a sober, trusted companion is not weakness, but wisdom
6. Maintain breaks — At least 1-2 weeks between research sessions, ideally longer
7. Plan your time window — Schedule 12+ hours without obligations
8. No research during psychological instability — Family history of psychosis or acute mental health crises are contraindications
9. Document everything — A research journal helps identify patterns and optimize dosages
10. When in doubt: don't proceed — If something feels wrong, waiting is the wisest decision

A comprehensive safer-use guide can be found in our category [Practice & Safer Use](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-sicherheit). Particularly recommended: [Set and Setting](https://lsd-derivate.com/set-und-setting) and [LSD Derivatives Safety](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-sicherheit).

8.4 How to Identify a Reputable Supplier

Quick checklist for trustworthy research chemical shops:

• Certificates of analysis for every batch publicly available
• Clear, correct product labeling (substance name, dosage, batch number)
• Transparent terms and conditions and legal notice (Impressum)
• No health or healing claims
• Age verification at purchase
• Community reputation (forums, reviews, experience reports)
• Reasonable prices (extremely cheap offers are often a warning sign)

More on this in our buyer's guide article [How to Identify a Reputable LSD Shop](https://lsd-derivate.com/serioeser-lsd-shop-erkennen).

Microdosing — the regular application of sub-perceptual doses — is one of the fastest-growing areas in the research community. A survey by the Beckley Foundation/Global Drug Survey 2023 found that an estimated 8-12% of all people who explore psychedelics regularly practice microdosing worldwide. For LSD derivatives, this proportion may be even higher, as the standardized dosage forms (especially pellets) facilitate precise dosing.

9.1 What Is Microdosing?

Microdosing refers to the application of a substance at a dose so low that it produces no perceptible psychoactive effects — but high enough to potentially induce subtle changes in cognition, creativity, or mood. The typical microdose of an LSD derivative is 5-20 mcg (LSD-25 equivalent), with most experienced microdosers finding their individual sweet spot at 8-15 mcg.

9.2 Common Protocols (Brief Overview)

Fadiman Protocol (the most well-known):

• Day 1: Microdose
• Day 2: Afterglow/observation (no dose)
• Day 3: Rest (no dose)
• Day 4: Next microdose
• Cycle: 4-8 weeks, then at least 2 weeks rest

Stamets Protocol (named after mycologist Paul Stamets):

• 4 days microdose, 3 days rest
• Often combined with niacin and lion's mane
• Cycle: 4 weeks dose, 2-4 weeks rest

Intuitive Microdosing:

• No fixed days, microdose based on feeling and need
• Not recommended by Fadiman, but has a growing following

9.3 Why LSD Derivatives Are Particularly Suited for Microdosing

Three reasons favor LSD derivatives over LSD-25 in the microdosing context:

1. Legal availability: In countries where current derivatives are not regulated, the legal risk is eliminated.
2. Standardized dosing: Pellets with 10 or 20 mcg are more precisely dosed than a self-cut LSD-25 blotter.
3. Consistent quality: Reputable suppliers with lab testing guarantee batch-by-batch consistent quality — an enormous advantage over the black market, where dosage claims are often fantasy figures.

Approximately 42% of 1BP-LSD buyers and 51% of 1Fe-LSD buyers indicate in an informal community survey that they use the substances primarily for microdosing.

9.4 Microdosing and Science

The scientific evidence on microdosing is... ambivalent. On one hand, there are encouraging results from open-label studies and surveys (Fadiman & Korb, 2019; Polito & Stevenson, 2019). On the other hand, the most rigorous placebo-controlled studies to date (Szigeti et al., 2021; de Wit et al., 2022) found only minimal or no significant differences between microdose and placebo.

What does this mean? The research is still in its early stages. Sample sizes were small (typically n=30-80), protocols varied, and microdosing is notoriously difficult to blind (participants often sense whether they received an active substance). The next generation of studies — with larger samples and better blinding methods — will hopefully bring more clarity.

Our second pillar page [Microdosing with LSD Derivatives: The Complete Guide](https://lsd-derivate.com/microdosing-guide) covers everything you need to know about microdosing — protocols, dosage, journaling, experience reports, and more.

You've made it this far — and with that, you've learned more about LSD derivatives than 95% of all people who type this search term into Google. Let's summarize what we know:

LSD derivatives are prodrugs of LSD-25 that differ from the parent substance by an attached protective group. As of April 2026, 1BP-LSD and 1Fe-LSD are the two currently legally researchable representatives in Germany. They differ in nuances — protective group size, possible pharmacokinetic differences, subjective community ratings — but the active substance is the same: LSD-25, which exerts its fascinating effects via the 5-HT2A receptor.

Research is still in its early stages in many areas. And that's precisely what makes it so exciting. Every new paper, every structured experience report, every carefully documented microdosing session contributes to the growing body of knowledge. We are researchers — together.

What you can do next:

• Beginner? Start with our [Beginner's Guide](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-einsteiger) and then read [7 Beginner Mistakes](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-anfänger-fehler)
• Interested in microdosing? Continue to the [Microdosing Guide](https://lsd-derivate.com/microdosing-guide)
• Check the legal status? To the [European Country Overview](https://lsd-derivate.com/lsd-derivate-legal-europa)
• Want to research a specific derivative? [What Is 1BP-LSD?](https://lsd-derivate.com/was-ist-1bp-lsd) or [What Is 1Fe-LSD?](https://lsd-derivate.com/was-ist-1fe-lsd)
• Ready to order? Browse the categories: [1BP-LSD](/1bp-lsd-kaufen/) | [1Fe-LSD](/1fe-lsd-kaufen/) | [Blotters](/lsd-blotter-kaufen/) | [Microdosing Pellets](/microdosing-pellets-kaufen/)

This article is regularly updated. Last content review: April 6, 2026. Next scheduled update: July 2026 or upon relevant regulatory changes.

Do you have questions, comments, or corrections? Our research community thrives on exchange — write to us or join the discussion in our community.