Single-dose 1cp-LSD administration for canine anxiety: a pilot study

This case study (n=1) finds that a single low dose of 5 µg (0.38µg/kg) of 1cp-LSD on a 13-year-old female dog with a history of separation-related behavioural problems significantly reduced anxiety after two hours. No adverse effects or signs of a psychedelic experience were observed during the 5.5-hour trial.

Abstract of Single-dose 1cp-LSD administration for canine anxiety

Anxiety affects 14–20% of dogs. Pharmacological treatments often fail. Psychedelics have shown to be useful for anxiety and depression in humans, but their veterinary use remains unexplored. We aimed to determine the effects of low-dose 1-cyclopropionyl-d-lysergic acid diethylamide (1cp-LSD) administered in a single dose to a dog, to observe the effect and establish the safety of the substance. The patient was a 13-year-old female dog, weighing 13 kg, mixed breed, and spayed. A total of 5 µg was administered orally, equivalent to 0.38 µg/kg. The animal has had a history of separation related behavioral problems throughout her life. To objectively assess the degree of anxiety in the dog, a validated scale was utilized. The trial was scheduled at the house where the animal lives. The owner was present throughout the experience. Informed consent was obtained prior to the assay. The trial began at 12:15 p.m. on January 10, 2024, lasting for 5 and a half hours. The response to anxiety-inducing stimuli was equally anxious during the first two hours. From that point onwards, a significant change in the animal’s behavior was observed, with no signs/mild signs of anxiety. The trial concluded without any adverse effects on the animal. The patient did not show signs of having a psychedelic experience. This is the first time that a study of this nature has been conducted and reported in the canine species. 1cp-LSD proved to be safe and exerted the desired effect on the animal’s behavior, significantly reducing the patient’s anxiety.

Authors: Luis A. Henríquez-Hernández, Ignacio García-Serrano, Domingo J. Quintana-Hernández, Jaime Rojas-Hernández, Elisa Hernández-Álvarez, Manuel Zumbado, Tobías Fernández-Borkel & Lucas F. Borkel

Summary of Single-dose 1cp-LSD administration for canine anxiety

Anxiety is a prevalent issue affecting 14-20% of dogs, causing significant distress to both the animals and their caregivers. Canine anxiety manifests in various ways, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, attention deficits, aggression towards strangers, excessive vocalization, and compulsive behaviours. While there is a suggested genetic component to canine anxiety, environmental factors also play a crucial role in its development.

Current treatments for canine anxiety primarily involve the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), benzodiazepines, and other medications such as tricyclic antidepressants or Alpha2 agonists. However, these pharmacological approaches often prove unsuccessful and come with drawbacks such as chronic use requirements, narrow safety margins, and potential for addiction and withdrawal syndrome.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in psychedelic substances for therapeutic purposes, particularly in treating mental illnesses like depression and anxiety in humans. These substances have demonstrated significant therapeutic potential and are considered safe when used responsibly and at appropriate doses. Most psychedelics act on the central nervous system by altering serotonin homeostasis through interaction with 5-HT2A receptors.

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Find this paper

Single-dose 1cp-LSD administration for canine anxiety: a pilot study

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11259-024-10542-6

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Cite this paper (APA)

Henríquez-Hernández, L., García-Serrano, I., Quintana-Hernández, D.J. et al. Single-dose 1cp-LSD administration for canine anxiety: a pilot study. Vet Res Commun (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11259-024-10542-6

Study details

Compounds studied
LSD

Topics studied
Anxiety

Study characteristics
Case Study Animal Study

Participants
1 Other Mammals

Compound Details

The psychedelics given at which dose and how many times

LSD 5 μg | 1x

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