DMT vs LSD
A side-by-side research comparison of DMT and LSD across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | DMT | LSD |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine | Lysergic acid diethylamide |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (research compound) |
| Mechanism | 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. | 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 | 188.27 g/mol | 323.43 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~10-15 minutes | ~3-5 hours |
| Bioavailability | Inhaled/injected (very short); oral only with an MAO inhibitor | Oral |
| Typical dose | Controlled dosing 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 IV in research; oral as ayahuasca | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
DMT reported benefits
- Studied for depression
- Very short experience aids research design
- Used to study consciousness
- Long traditional use as ayahuasca
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.