What Is DMT? Its Side Effects And Risks
DMT, or N, N-dimethyltryptamine In medical terms, the hallucinogenic drug is tryptamine. This drug, sometimes called Dimitri, produces side effects such as psychedelics like LSD and hallucinogenic mushrooms.
Other names include:
- Fantasia
- Businessman’s Trip
- Businessman’s Special
- 45-minute Psychosis
- Spiritual Molecule
DMT is a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, which means that it is illegal to manufacture, buy, possess, or distribute it. Many cities have recently criminalized it, but it is illegal under state and federal law.
Where does it come from
DMT is found naturally in many species of plants that have been used in religious ceremonies for centuries in many South American countries.
It can also be done in a laboratory.
Is it the same as ayahuasca?
DMT is an important active ingredient in ayahuasca. Ayahuasca is traditionally made from two plants called Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis. The latter contains DMT and the former contains MAOIs which prevent certain enzymes in the body from breaking down DMT.
Is it really present in your brain naturally?
No one knows for sure. Some experts believe that the pineal gland produces it in the brain and releases it when we dream.
Others believe that it occurs at birth and death. Some even go so far as to say that the release of the DMT at the time of death may be the cause of the near-death mystical experiences that you sometimes hear about.
How does it taste?
Like most medications, DMT can affect people in a variety of ways. Some people really enjoyed the experience. Others find it scary or intimidating.
About its psychological effects, people describe their feelings as moving at the speed of light through tunnels of light and bright shapes. Others describe experiencing and feeling as if they have been transformed into something else.
Some even report visiting other worlds and interacting with elf-like creatures. Some people also report a relatively large drop in their DMT levels, which causes them discomfort.
How is it eaten?
Synthetic DMT is usually available as a white, crystal powder. It can be inhaled, inhaled or inhaled through a pipe.
When used in religious ceremonies, plants and grapes are boiled and tea of different strengths is drunk.
How much time does it take to work?
Synthetic DMT activates quickly, producing effect within 5-10 minutes.
The herbal mixture usually starts working within 20-60 minutes.
How long does it last?
The severity and duration of the DMT course depends on a number of factors, including:
- How much do you use?
- How do you use it?
- If you have eaten
- If you are taking other medicines or drugs.
Generally, the effect of inhaling, inhaling, or injecting DMT lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Drinking ayahuasca can stun you for 2-6 hours.
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Does it cause any side effects?
DMT is a powerful substance that can cause a range of mental and physical side effects. Some of them are required, others are not so much.
Possible mental effects of DMT include:
- Euphoria
- Floating
- Vivid hallucinations
- Altered sense of time
- Depersonalization
Please note that some people experience brain effects that last for days or weeks after use.
Physiological effects of DMT may include:
- High heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Visual Disturbances
- Dizziness
- Dilated Pupils
- Agitation
- Paranoia
- Fast Rhythmic Eye Movements
- Chest Pain Or Tightness
- Diarrhea
- Nausea Or Vomiting
What are the risks?
Yes, some of them are potentially dangerous.
Physical side effects of DMT, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, can be dangerous, especially if you have heart problems or you already have high blood pressure.
Using DMT can also cause:
- Seizures
- Loss of muscle coordination, which increases the risk of falling and injury.
- Confusion
It can also be associated with shortness of breath and coma.
Like other hallucinogenic drugs, DMT can cause permanent psychosis and chronic hallucinogenic perception disorder (HPPD). Both are rare and more common in people with pre-existing mental illness.
Are there other interactions you need to know?
DMT may interact with some other prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as other medications.
If you use DMT, avoid mixing with:
- Alcohol
- Antihistamines
- Muscle Relaxants
- Opioids
- Benzodiazepines
- Amphetamines
- LSD, aka acid
- Mushrooms
- Ketamine
- Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), aka liquid V and liquid G
- Cocaine
- Cannabis
Is it addictive?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, it has not yet been decided whether DMT is addictive.
About Tolerance?
Tolerance refers to the need to use more specific medications over time to achieve the same effect. According to a 2013 study, DMT does not produce tolerance.
Harm Reduction Tips
DMT is very effective, although it is found naturally in some plant species. If you are going to try it, here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
Keep these tips in mind when using DMT:
- Strength In Numbers Do not use DMT alone. Do it with people you trust.
- Find a friend Make sure there is at least one conscientious person around you who can take action if a problem arises.
- Consider your surroundings Make sure you use it in a safe and comfortable place.
- Sit down Sit or lie down to reduce the risk of injury from falls or seizures.
- Keep it simple Do not combine DMT with alcohol or other drugs.
- Choose the right moment The effects of DMT can be quite strong. As a result, it’s best used when you’re already in a good mood.
- Find out when to ignore it Avoid using DMT if you are taking antidepressants, have heart disease, or already have high blood pressure.
The Bottom Line
DMT is a natural chemical that has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries in various cultures of South America. Today, its synthetics are used for their powerful hallucinogenic effects.
If you are interested in trying DMT, it is important to take some steps to reduce the risk of serious side effects. This includes making sure that whatever over-the-counter medication you take does not cause a negative reaction.
