Psilocin vs Psilocybin
A side-by-side research comparison of Psilocin and Psilocybin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Psilocin | Psilocybin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | 4-Hydroxy-DMT (active form of psilocybin) | Psilocybin (from psilocybin mushrooms) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for depression) |
| Mechanism | Directly activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Psilocybin is a "prodrug" that the body converts into psilocin. | 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 | 204.27 g/mol | 284.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~1-3 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 |
Psilocin reported benefits
- The active form behind psilocybin
- Studied for depression and anxiety
- Faster onset than psilocybin
- Classic serotonergic psychedelic
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.