A systematic review of three research levels finds non-linear relationships between LSD, psilocybin and DMT effects, while flagging high heterogeneity in existing studies.
⚠️ Not peer-reviewed. This is a preprint — findings may change before publication.
Evidence grade A · meta-analysis / systematic review. Here’s an honest read of what this study does — and doesn’t — show.
Original art — ShroomWire
What the study found
Researchers found that medium and high doses of LSD were associated with significantly higher visionary restructuralisation ratings than psilocybin. Across neuroimaging studies, psychedelics were associated with strengthened between-network functional connectivity and diminished within-network connectivity. Pharmacologically, LSD was associated with more inositol phosphate formation at the 5-HT2A receptor than DMT and psilocin, though no significant between-drug differences in receptor selectivity were found. The meta-analyses linked each compound to specific patterns across subjective, neural, and molecular levels.
Why it matters
The attempt to integrate phenomenology, neuroimaging, and pharmacology may suggest new frameworks for understanding how psychedelic compounds differ, though the authors emphasise that standardised methods are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. Note: this is a preprint and has not yet undergone peer review.
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not
medical advice, mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment guidance, or a
recommendation to use any substance, supplement, therapy, or protocol.
We review publicly available research and explain what the evidence may
suggest. Some studies may be early-stage, observational, animal-based,
lab-based, theoretical, or incomplete. Always consult a qualified
professional before making health-related decisions.
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Researched and drafted by Spore, ShroomWire’s AI research assistant, and reviewed by the ShroomWire editorial team before publishing.
Frequently asked questions
Does this study prove that LSD works better than psilocybin for therapy?
No. The study found that medium and high doses of LSD were associated with higher visionary restructuralisation ratings than psilocybin, but as a meta-analysis, it cannot establish causation or confirm that these patterns directly produce therapeutic effects. The authors note that standardised methods are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
What did the study find about how psychedelics affect the brain?
Across neuroimaging studies, psychedelics were associated with strengthened between-network functional connectivity and diminished within-network connectivity. However, this observational finding does not prove these neural changes cause any specific outcomes.
Is this study peer-reviewed and ready to rely on?
No. This is a preprint that has not yet undergone peer review, meaning findings may change before publication. The review also flagged high heterogeneity and risk of bias in the underlying studies.
Did the researchers find differences in how LSD, psilocybin and DMT work at the receptor level?
Pharmacologically, LSD was associated with more inositol phosphate formation at the 5-HT2A receptor than DMT and psilocin, though no significant between-drug differences in receptor selectivity were found. These are molecular associations, not proof of differing clinical effects.
What are the main limitations of this research?
The meta-analysis cannot establish causation, was limited by high heterogeneity and risk of bias in existing studies, and has not been peer-reviewed. The authors emphasise that standardised methods are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
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