Ketamine vs MDMA
A side-by-side research comparison of Ketamine and MDMA across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ketamine | MDMA |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ketamine (and esketamine) | 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule III; esketamine FDA-approved for depression | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for PTSD) |
| Mechanism | Blocks NMDA glutamate receptors, which is thought to quickly boost synaptic connections and lift mood. This is a different pathway from classic serotonin psychedelics. | Triggers large releases of serotonin (and to a lesser extent dopamine and norepinephrine) and increases oxytocin, prolactin and cortisol. This produces feelings of trust, openness and emotional closeness that support psychotherapy. |
| Molecular weight | 237.73 g/mol | 193.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~2-3 hours | ~7-9 hours |
| Bioavailability | IV, intramuscular, nasal, oral (varies) | Oral, high |
| Typical dose | Low sub-anesthetic doses for depression (clinic-administered) | 75-125 mg (often with an optional supplemental half-dose) |
| Frequency | A series of supervised sessions | A small number of monthly sessions |
| Route | IV infusion, intramuscular, or nasal spray (esketamine) | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
Ketamine reported benefits
- Rapid relief from treatment-resistant depression
- FDA-approved option (esketamine) exists
- Can reduce suicidal thoughts quickly
- Useful when other antidepressants fail
MDMA reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant PTSD
- Lowers fear response during trauma processing
- Increases trust and emotional openness
- Strong Phase 3 trial results from MAPS
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.