DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): What It Is, Side Effects, Risks, & More

What Is DMT(Dimethyltryptamine)?

DMT is an alkaloid found in many different plants and animals. It is most known for stimulating short, intense psychedelic effects, including visual hallucinations. This is when DMT is consumed in higher concentrations. It’s been used in South America for centuries, but it has become more popular in Europe and North America in recent years.²

People have been using DMT in religious settings since ancient times. However, modern consumption tends to be more recreational, with people taking DMT to promote greater self-discovery, discover more spirituality, and deepen their sense of consciousness. One study found that over one-third of recreational DMT users report such psychotherapeutic benefits as their main rationale for using DMT.³

Other Names for DMT

Like many drugs, DMT has different names. People often use street or slang names to avoid getting in trouble with the law or to discuss certain drugs in secret. Various names are also based on colloquial trends and different geographical locations. It’s important for individuals and their loved ones to stay informed on specific drug terms.

Other names from DMT include:

• Dimitri
• Changa
• Fantasia
• The spirit molecule
• The Rogan
• Businessman’s trip

Is DMT The Same As Ayahuasca?

DMT is a natural compound organically found in several different animal and plant species. It is a component of ayahuasca, which is a plant-based psychedelic. However, it’s also found in other sources, including the lung and brain. It’s also present in human blood, urine, and various fluids.⁴ Ayahuasca is typically brewed into a tea or other drink.

What Does DMT Feel Like?

DMT is most known for giving users a short and powerful ‘trip.’ Like other psychedelics, it distorts one’s sensory perceptions. People may see things that aren’t ordinarily there (known as hallucinations). They may also have the sensation of an out-of-body experience, and it can feel like time and movement either slow down or speed up.

That said, it’s also possible for users to have bad trip experiences. A bad trip typically consists of feeling like you’re “losing yourself” or experiencing a form of ego dissolution/death.⁵ Bad trips can be common when using psychedelics, and they can be particularly scary for people who have underlying mental health issues.

Potential Treatment Applications For DMT

The DEA currently classifies DMT as a Schedule I drug. This classification means DMT is not federally accepted for any forms of medical use. However, many medical experts have sought to decriminalize psychedelics and call for lighter legislation. Some research suggests that even single exposure use of DMT can cause a reduction in anxiety, chronic stress, and depression symptoms.⁶

How Is DMT Consumed?

DMT can be consumed via various routes of administration. Some people smoke it using a vape pen, pipe, or joint. Others brew DMT into thick drinks of teas (known as ayahuasca). It can also be crushed into a powder form and snorted, injected intravenously, or swallowed in a tablet form.

How Long Do The Effects Of DMT Last?

DMT kicks in quickly, and the effects typically last between 30-60 minutes when smoked. However, effects may persist up to four hours when drinking ayahuasca. The specific length of each DMT experience is based on several variables, and it’s impossible to predict exactly how long a user’s trip will last.

Things that can affects how long DMT lasts includes:

• How you use it
• How much you use
• Whether you are using other drugs
• Your individual body composition
• Your physical health

Side Effects Of DMT

Like all drugs, there are risks of side effects associated with DMT use. These side effects may impact someone’s sleep, appetite, body temperature, digestive tract, mood, and sensory perception. More dangerous effects include the risk of losing coordination, severe dizziness, vomiting, and seizures. Increased drug use is associated with a greater risk of side effects.

Possible mental side effects of DMT include:

• Vivid hallucinations
• Distorted sensory perceptions
• Mood changes
• Changes in sexual drive
• Sleep issues
• Paranoia

Possible physical side effects of DMT include:⁷

• Dilated pupils
• High blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Rapid heart rate
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Trembling
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Body temperature changes
• Congenital abnormalities in utero
• Restlessness

Potential Risks & Dangers Of DMT

It is important to be aware of the risks of using DMT. The physical side effects of increased blood pressure and heart rate can be problematic for people who have cardiovascular issues. Loss of muscle coordination may increase one’s susceptibility to experiencing injuries. Moreover, concerns about purity should be considered. There is always a chance of other, dangerous ingredients being used to manufacture illicit drugs.

Long-Term Effects Of DMT

The main long-term risk associated with DMT is hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPDD). This is rare, but it can cause recurrent flashbacks that are distressing in nature. DMT may also coincide with persistent psychosis symptoms, and this risk may be heightened for individuals with underlying psychotic disorders or other substance abuse issues.

Serotonin Syndrome & DMT

Serotonin toxicity, which is also known as serotonin syndrome, can be a fatal drug-induced condition caused by excessive serotonin within the synapses of the brain. This happens when too many medications increase serotonin in the body.⁸ If someone is also taking  antidepressants while using DMT, they may be at a greater risk for developing this condition.

Contact your doctor if you are using antidepressants and DMT and experience these symptoms:

• Disorientation
• Agitation
• Confusion
• Insomnia
• Dilated pupils
• Muscle rigidity
• High blood pressure
• Loss of muscle coordination or twitching muscles
• Rapid heart rate
• Restlessness
• Headache

DMT Interaction With Other Substances

People who intend to use DMT should be mindful of how it may interact with other drugs. A drug interaction refers to the combined effects of taking multiple drugs together. Such interactions may inhibit or enhance the absorption of either drug. With that in mind, problematic drug interactions can cause serious side effects.

Avoid mixing DMT with substances that include:

• LSD
• Alcohol
• Cannabis
• Cocaine
• Ecstasy/MDMA
• Methamphetamine
• Excessive caffeine
• Excessive nicotine

Avoid mixing DMT with prescription and over the counter medications that include:

• Benzodiazepines
• Antipsychotics
• Opioids
• Decongestants
• Sedatives
• Amphetamines

Is DMT Addictive?

DMT is generally not considered to be addictive, and it does not produce typical withdrawal symptoms. However, it’s important to note that all drugs impact neurotransmitter communication, which can lead to psychological addiction symptoms. People may want to use DMT more frequently, and it can cause disruptions in daily life. It’s also possible to build a tolerance to this drug.

Harm Reduction Tips

People who intend to use DMT should proceed with caution. While all drug use carries inherent risks, there are steps people can take to increase their safety and mitigate potential side effects. Avoiding dangerous drug interactions is one of the most important steps someone can take. In addition, it’s crucial to be mindful of where one purchases this drug.

Things to keep in mind when using DMT include:

• Do not combine with other substances: Drug interactions can cause serious side effects, so avoid mixing drugs as much as possible.
• Don’t use alone: Have a supportive and sober person near you at all times. They can check to ensure your safety and reach out for help should problems occur.
• Use a safe amount: When in doubt, start with the smallest dose. Remember that some effects may take some time to fully kick in.
• Be aware of the possibility of a bad trip: Bad trips can happen, but some people believe that having a positive mindset can help reduce the risk of this happening.
• Don’t use it if pregnant or breastfeeding: It is not recommended that pregnant or nursing women use psychedelics at any point.
• Stay in a safe setting: The ideal environment should be comfortable and private. Be careful about using drugs in an unfamiliar location.

When to Seek Professional Help

Excessive substance use may indicate the initial signs of developing a drug addiction. If you are using too much DMT or frequently use DMT to self-medicate other symptoms, it may be beneficial to seek professional support. Consider looking for a therapist specializing in substance use via our  online therapist directory or an online therapy platform. If you want to discuss medication options, consider consulting with an in-person or online psychiatrist.