LSD vs MDA
A side-by-side research comparison of LSD and MDA across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | LSD | MDA |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lysergic acid diethylamide | 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (sass) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (research compound) |
| Mechanism | Activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors (and others), changing perception, mood and the way brain networks communicate. Effects last much longer than most psychedelics. | Releases serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine and has direct serotonin receptor activity, giving a mix of empathogenic and psychedelic effects. |
| Molecular weight | 323.43 g/mol | 179.22 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~3-5 hours | ~6-8 hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | 100-200 mcg in clinical trials | Varies by individual and setting |
| Frequency | One to a few supervised sessions | Occasional |
| Route | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting | Oral |
LSD reported benefits
- Studied for anxiety in serious illness
- Explored for depression and addiction
- Long duration allows deep therapeutic work
- Renewed clinical research interest
MDA reported benefits
- More visual than MDMA
- Empathogen-psychedelic blend
- Longer-lasting
- Historic research compound
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.