LSD vs Mescaline
A side-by-side research comparison of LSD and Mescaline across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | LSD | Mescaline |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lysergic acid diethylamide | Mescaline (from peyote and San Pedro cactus) |
| 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. | Activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, producing long-lasting changes in perception and mood. It is a phenethylamine rather than a tryptamine. |
| Molecular weight | 323.43 g/mol | 211.26 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~3-5 hours | ~6 hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | 100-200 mcg in clinical trials | Several hundred milligrams (study and traditional use) |
| Frequency | One to a few supervised sessions | Occasional or ceremonial |
| 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
Mescaline reported benefits
- Long history of ceremonial use
- Survey data links use to wellbeing
- Renewed research interest
- Distinct phenethylamine profile
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.