DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) is a strong psychedelic drug with a reputation for providing intense but short-lived hallucinogenic experiences.
People might be searching for more information on this drug due to its use in certain spiritual and religious rites – particularly as the psychoactive part of the drug ayahuasca – as well as its rising popularity as a recreational substance.
But what exactly is DMT, what are the potential risks and how long does DMT last?
In this article we’ll take a closer look at this psychedelic drug, covering the typical timeline, how DMT works and the potential risks involved.
What Is DMT?
Dimethyltryptamine, commonly known as DMT, is a psychedelic drug that is found naturally in a number of plants and animals. It can, for example, be extracted from the seeds of the South American yopo tree (Anadenanthera peregrina) or the bark of the virola family of flowering trees in South and Central America. A close relative of the drug, 5-MeO-DMT, is another powerful hallucinogen that is secreted from glands on the back of the Sonoran Desert toad.
These natural sources of DMT have traditionally been used in a number of indigenous spiritual and healing practices in South and Central America. This has led to a growing interest in the drug, the use of which has spread to numerous markets around the world. It’s worth noting, though, that natural does not necessarily mean safe and that any DMT encountered in the UK and Europe is likely to have been synthesised in a lab.
The mechanisms of DMT are not fully understood but it is believed to affect a number of processes in the periphery and central nervous system. This includes serotonin receptors. Serotonin is a chemical messenger involved with mood and rewards systems and is sometimes known as ‘the feelgood hormone’. This alters the brain’s chemistry to cause the intense, visual and auditory hallucinations, a distorted sense of time, and profound shifts in perception with which the drug is associated.
Is DMT Illegal in the UK?
DMT is classified as a Class A drug in the UK. This means anyone caught in possession of DMT can face up to 7 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both. The maximum penalty for supply or production of DMT is life in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
How DMT Is Used
DMT can be vapourised or smoked in a pipe, snorted or injected. It can also be brewed into a drink for oral consumption.
Indigenous DMT use in the Americas has traditionally involved either hallucinogenic snuff, which is snorted, or a tea-type brew known as ayahuasca. Ayahuasca can be made from a number of different plants and ingredients, but DMT is the main psychoactive element. This is the method of use most frequently associated with spiritual and healing practices.
How Long Does DMT Last?
The onset and duration of DMT can vary quite widely depending on both the dose and how it is taken.
For example, injecting DMT into a vein will typically involve a near-instant onset and fast peak as the drug is introduced directly into the bloodstream. Smoking also provides a quick hit as the lungs have a large surface area and the active ingredients are quickly absorbed – passing into the bloodstream and then to the brain.
Drinking DMT as part of a brew like ayahuasca has a slightly slower effect, as the active ingredients have to pass through the digestive system first.
The delivery method can have an impact on the timeline of DMT in the following ways:
Onset
- Intravenous injection (into the vein): Near instant
- Intramuscular injection (into the muscle): 2-5 minutes
- Smoking: Near instant
- Ayahuasca brew: 30-60 minutes
Peak Effects
- Intravenous injection (into the vein): 5 minutes
- Intramuscular injection (into the muscle): 5-10 minutes
- Smoking: 5 minutes
- Ayahuasca brew: 90 minutes
Comedown
- Intravenous injection (into the vein): Lasts up to 30 minutes
- Intramuscular injection (into the muscle): Lasts up to 30-60 minutes
- Smoking: Lasts up to 30 minutes
- Ayahuasca brew: Lasts up to 4 hours
According to Medical News Today, available information on intranasal use (snorting) is too inconclusive to provide a reliable timeline. Some older research suggested that intranasal use renders DMT non-psychoactive. However, hallucinogenic snuff has been documented so it may be a matter of preparation. Going off the effects of snorting other drugs such as cocaine, the timeline may be comparable to smoking.
It is also worth noting that, whichever delivery method is used, the effects may be shorter than other hallucinogens that are usually taken orally. For example, magic mushrooms (psilocybin) can kick in within about half an hour and may last for around 4-6 hours. An acid or LSD trip may start within 20-90 minutes of ingesting the drug and can last for up to 12 hours or even more, depending on the dosage.
It is important to remember that these are just guidelines. The timeline of any drug use can vary between individuals and depending on a number of factors including the dose and personal health issues.
Risks of DMT Use
Some people consider DMT to be a safe drug because it is naturally occurring and has been used in traditional medicine but natural substances can still pose risks, especially if misused.
Some reported possible physical side effects include:
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Chest pain or tightness
- Agitation
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid rhythmic movements of the eye
- Dizziness
DMT taken in ayahuasca can also cause stomach upsets, vomiting and diarrhoea. There can also be an increased risk of physical accidents and exposure to unsafe situations when using DMT.
Users can experience a ‘bad trip’, which can include upsetting or terrifying hallucinations that could potentially cause lasting psychological damage.
High doses of DMT have been linked to serious consequences including seizures, coma and respiratory arrest. DMT may also contribute to a serious condition known as serotonin syndrome, especially if used alongside other drugs such as MDMA.
Getting Support for Drug Use
Prolonged use of DMT may cause psychological dependence, as well as triggering or contributing to psychological issues such as anxiety. If you’re concerned about your DMT use or issues with any other substance, get in touch with Cassiobury Court today for free and confidential advice.
