LSD vs Salvinorin A
A side-by-side research comparison of LSD and Salvinorin A across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | LSD | Salvinorin A |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lysergic acid diethylamide | Salvinorin A (Salvia divinorum) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Varies by region; 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 kappa-opioid receptors (not serotonin receptors), which makes its effects unlike LSD or psilocybin. |
| Molecular weight | 323.43 g/mol | 432.46 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~3-5 hours | Very short |
| 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 | Smoked, vaporized or held in the mouth |
LSD reported benefits
- Studied for anxiety in serious illness
- Explored for depression and addiction
- Long duration allows deep therapeutic work
- Renewed clinical research interest
Salvinorin A reported benefits
- Unique kappa-opioid mechanism
- Very short experience
- Long traditional Mazatec use
- Of interest for depression research
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.