A psilocybin-like psychedelic taken as a capsule—gentle in onset, deep in effect.

4-AcO-DMT is a lab-made compound closely related to psilocybin (the substance in magic mushrooms). It usually comes as a white or tan powder and is put into capsules to be taken orally. Once inside the body, it's converted into psilocin—the same active chemical found in mushrooms.

How It Works

After swallowing the pill, it’s broken down in your body and affects serotonin receptors in the brain. This produces:

Enhanced colors and visuals

Emotional openness and reflection

Feelings of peace, wonder, or connectedness

Changes in how time, self, and surroundings are experienced

Timeline of Effects

Starts in: 20 to 60 minutes

Peaks at: 1.5 to 2.5 hours

Lasts for: 4 to 6 hours (sometimes longer)

Risks & Concerns

Mental health: Not safe for people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder

Difficult trips: Can bring up anxiety, fear, or overwhelming thoughts

Fake or unknown substances: Pills sold online may not be pure or safe

Mixing drugs: Combining with antidepressants, stimulants, or other psychedelics can be dangerous

Harm Reduction Tips

Start low: half a pill is enough for many people

Be prepared: Trip in a safe space with no interruptions

Have support: A sober, trusted person nearby is ideal

Don’t mix with other substances

Integration: Afterward, take time to reflect and process what you experienced

Why Researchers Study It

4-AcO-DMT is gaining attention as a possible therapeutic tool for:

Depression and emotional trauma

Enhancing creativity and introspection

Learning how the brain handles altered states

Though less well-known than psilocybin, many researchers believe it could serve similar purposes with added benefits like smoother onset and easier storage.