DXM vs Psilocybin
A side-by-side research comparison of DXM and Psilocybin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | DXM | Psilocybin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Dextromethorphan | Psilocybin (from psilocybin mushrooms) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Over-the-counter cough suppressant (psychedelic at high doses) | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for depression) |
| Mechanism | At high doses it blocks NMDA glutamate receptors, producing dissociation similar to ketamine. | 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 | 271.40 g/mol | 284.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~3-6 hours | ~2-3 hours (psilocin) |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | Varies by individual and setting | 10-30 mg in clinical trials |
| Frequency | Occasional | One to a few supervised sessions |
| Route | Oral | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
DXM reported benefits
- Widely studied cough medicine
- Dissociative effects at high doses
- Included for awareness
- Researched for mood (as a combo drug)
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
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.