5-MeO-DMT vs Psilocybin
A side-by-side research comparison of 5-MeO-DMT and Psilocybin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | 5-MeO-DMT | Psilocybin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine | Psilocybin (from psilocybin mushrooms) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for depression) |
| Mechanism | Strongly activates serotonin 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, producing rapid and intense changes in consciousness. | Converted in the body to psilocin, which activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. This temporarily loosens rigid thinking patterns and increases connectivity between brain networks. |
| Molecular weight | 218.30 g/mol | 284.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | Short (minutes) | ~2-3 hours (psilocin) |
| Bioavailability | Inhaled/injected | Oral |
| Typical dose | Low milligram range in clinical studies | 10-30 mg 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
Psilocybin reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Eases anxiety in life-threatening illness
- Explored for alcohol and tobacco addiction
- Often produces durable improvements after few doses
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.