Pharmacology

Dimethyltryptamine is primarily a serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonist. Like many other chemicals in its class, DMT’s psychedelic actions can mostly be attributed to its effects on the 5-HT2A receptor. It does affect many other receptor types (including dopamine and sigma receptors), but the consequences of these interactions are not well understood.[2]

In a study that administered low, medium, or high doses to 12 volunteers, the psychedelic threshold for DMT was found to be 0.2 mg/kg. At this level, most biological effects were detectably altered. Adrenocorticotropin hormone, beta-endorphin, prolactin, growth hormone (GH), and cortisol were all elevated. Pupil diameter, heart rate, and blood pressure all peaked within 2 minutes of administration, as did subjective experiences.

A later trial found that the body does not build a tolerance to DMT, meaning there’s no need to take more to repeat the same effects, unlike other psychedelics such as LSD and psilocybin.[3], [4]

Toxicity

The exact toxic profile of DMT is unknown, but studies in rodents suggest that a lethal dose in humans would be extremely high—more than 20 times the typical dose given during an ayahuasca ceremony.

When experienced users were asked to rate its safety, 55% said DMT is “very safe” and 38% said “quite safe”.[5] The main risks they reported were a “bad trip” (51%), which is a considerably higher risk compared to other classic psychedelics.

Interactions with other drugs

DMT significantly affects the serotonin system and should not be taken simultaneously with any of the following substances:

  • SSRI’s (any selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, like Prozac)
  • Antihypertensives (high blood pressure medicine)
  • Appetite suppressants (diet pills)
  • Medication for asthma, bronchitis, or other breathing problems; antihistamines; medicines for colds, sinus problems, hay fever, or allergies (any drug containing dextromethorphan/ DXM or with DM, DX or Tuss in its name)
  • CNS (central nervous system) depressants (Xanax, Ativan, etc)
  • Vasodilators
  • Antipsychotics
  • Barbiturates
  • Alcohol

Illegal or recreational drugs that are dangerous to combine with DMT include:

  • Cocaine
  • Amphetamines (meth-, dex-, amphetamine), ephedrine, MDMA (Ecstasy), MDA, MDEA, PMA
  • Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine, and especially opium)
  • Dextromethorphan (DXM)
  • Nutmeg

Illegal or recreational drugs that can be dangerous to combine with DMT include:

  • Mescaline (any phenethylamine)
  • Barbiturates
  • Alcohol
  • Kratom
  • Kava
  • 5-MEO-DMT