5-MeO-DMT vs DMT
A side-by-side research comparison of 5-MeO-DMT and DMT across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | 5-MeO-DMT | DMT |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (research compound) |
| Mechanism | Strongly activates serotonin 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, producing rapid and intense changes in consciousness. | Activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, producing vivid changes in perception. When taken orally in ayahuasca, an MAO inhibitor is needed so it is not broken down too quickly. |
| Molecular weight | 218.30 g/mol | 188.27 g/mol |
| Half-life | Short (minutes) | ~10-15 minutes |
| Bioavailability | Inhaled/injected | Inhaled/injected (very short); oral only with an MAO inhibitor |
| Typical dose | Low milligram range in clinical studies | Controlled dosing in clinical studies |
| Frequency | One to a few supervised sessions | One to a few supervised sessions |
| Route | Inhalation or injection in research settings | Inhalation or IV in research; oral as ayahuasca |
5-MeO-DMT reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Short duration suits clinical use
- Explored for anxiety
- Rapid onset of effects
DMT reported benefits
- Studied for depression
- Very short experience aids research design
- Used to study consciousness
- Long traditional use as ayahuasca
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.