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DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine)

Category: Psychedelics. Status: Schedule I (research compound).

A fast-acting, short-lived classic psychedelic found in many plants and produced in trace amounts in the body. Studied for depression and for understanding consciousness because its effects are intense but brief.

How it works

Activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, producing vivid changes in perception. When taken orally in ayahuasca, an MAO inhibitor is needed so it is not broken down too quickly.

Key facts

  • Molecular weight: 188.27 g/mol
  • Half-life: ~10-15 minutes
  • Bioavailability: Inhaled/injected (very short); oral only with an MAO inhibitor
  • Storage: Research/clinical settings only.

Dosing overview

  • Typical dose: Controlled dosing in clinical studies
  • Frequency: One to a few supervised sessions
  • Duration: Acute effects last 5-20 minutes (longer as ayahuasca)
  • Route: Inhalation or IV in research; oral as ayahuasca

Protocol notes

  • Smoked or vaporized for a very short (5-20 minute) but extremely intense experience.
  • In research it is sometimes given by slow IV drip so scientists can control and extend the effect.
  • Taken by mouth only as part of ayahuasca, combined with a plant that stops the body breaking it down.
  • People sit or lie down somewhere safe because the onset is sudden and overwhelming.

Reported benefits

  • Studied for depression
  • Very short experience aids research design
  • Used to study consciousness
  • Long traditional use as ayahuasca

Possible side effects

  • Very intense, rapid onset
  • Anxiety or fear
  • Raised heart rate and blood pressure
  • Nausea (especially as ayahuasca)

Research

  • DMT for major depressive disorder (Phase 1/2a) (2023): Early trials reported rapid and meaningful reductions in depression symptoms after supervised dosing.

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Community discussions about DMT

Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.