I recently tried 5-MAPB (5-(2-methylaminopropyl)benzofuran) at 80mg on a single occasion—my first experience with an MDMA-like compound. This gave me a useful point of comparison with psilomethoxin (Pm).

In my judgment, Pm at 0.5–1g most closely resembles 5-MAPB. Below that range, Pm is too subtle; above it, the experience pulls inward too firmly in a way that diverges from the 5-MAPB character.

The comparison confirmed differences I had suspected. 5-MAPB is a stimulant—sleep on the day of administration was a challenge. Pm is not a stimulant; as noted in the original case report, falling asleep at the peak is possible.

5-MAPB also requires less mental steering. The experience unfolds largely on its own. Pm, by contrast, is more responsive to where you direct your attention. If you aren’t inclined to focus inward, Pm will amplify sensation—touch and sound can become more vivid.

The bigger surprise for me was the aftermath of 5-MAPB. I experienced significant emotional dysregulation in the days following administration. This is a known complaint with MDMA, but it hit me hard—the first 24 hours were difficult, and I didn’t feel fully recovered until after 48 hours. Pm has none of that. The Pm comedown is pleasant and easy.

These differences probably have clinical implications. 5-MAPB may be better suited for treating severe PTSD: it reliably places the user in a clear, open headspace without requiring much volitional effort. Pm, by contrast, depends on willingness to look inside—and someone in the grip of severe PTSD may lack that capacity. And for someone whose baseline already involves significant suffering, the comedown crash may feel less severe by comparison. Once the most acute PTSD symptoms have eased, however, Pm looks more attractive. The inward focus it asks of you is not onerous, and the absence of a difficult aftermath makes repeated use far more sustainable.

For background, see Psilomethoxin, My Case Report.