DMT vs Psilocybin
A side-by-side research comparison of DMT and Psilocybin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | DMT | Psilocybin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine | Psilocybin (from psilocybin mushrooms) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for depression) |
| 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. | 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 | 188.27 g/mol | 284.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~10-15 minutes | ~2-3 hours (psilocin) |
| Bioavailability | Inhaled/injected (very short); oral only with an MAO inhibitor | Oral |
| Typical dose | Controlled dosing 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 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
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
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.