5-MeO-DMT vs LSD
A side-by-side research comparison of 5-MeO-DMT and LSD across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | 5-MeO-DMT | LSD |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine | Lysergic acid diethylamide |
| 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 (and others), changing perception, mood and the way brain networks communicate. Effects last much longer than most psychedelics. |
| Molecular weight | 218.30 g/mol | 323.43 g/mol |
| Half-life | Short (minutes) | ~3-5 hours |
| Bioavailability | Inhaled/injected | Oral |
| Typical dose | Low milligram range in clinical studies | 100-200 mcg in clinical trials |
| Frequency | One to a few supervised sessions | One to a few supervised sessions |
| Route | Inhalation or injection in research settings | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
5-MeO-DMT reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Short duration suits clinical use
- Explored for anxiety
- Rapid onset of effects
LSD reported benefits
- Studied for anxiety in serious illness
- Explored for depression and addiction
- Long duration allows deep therapeutic work
- Renewed clinical research interest
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.