MDMA vs Psilocybin
A side-by-side research comparison of MDMA and Psilocybin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | MDMA | Psilocybin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine | Psilocybin (from psilocybin mushrooms) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for PTSD) | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for depression) |
| Mechanism | 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. | 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 | 193.25 g/mol | 284.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~7-9 hours | ~2-3 hours (psilocin) |
| Bioavailability | Oral, high | Oral |
| Typical dose | 75-125 mg (often with an optional supplemental half-dose) | 10-30 mg in clinical trials |
| Frequency | A small number of monthly sessions | One to a few supervised sessions |
| Route | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
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
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
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.