Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a psychedelic drug traditionally used in shamanic medicine in parts of South America, is also taken recreationally for euphoria or spiritual enlightenment. Despite its long history in sacramental ceremonies, using DMT alone may not be safe. Before trying DMT or any psychedelic, it’s essential to understand the potential dangers and side effects.
If you or someone you know needs substance abuse treatment to overcome dependence on DMT or other party drugs, reach out to My 5 Palms online or call 1.844.675.1022.
What You Should Know About DMT
Dimethyltryptamine is a psychedelic compound found in various plants and animals. The human brain also produces it, though how it interacts with other neurotransmitters to create its effects is not fully understood.
How Do You Consume DMT?
DMT is consumed in one of several ways:
- Smoking
- Vaporizing
- Snorting
- Drinking
- Injecting
In shamanic rituals, DMT is commonly used as ayahuasca, a uniquely prepared brew that creates a long-lasting psychedelic experience. Injecting DMT produces a quicker, more intense high, but the effects fade faster.
What Are the Side Effects of DMT Use?
As with any drug, there are side effects of dimethyltryptamine use. Some potential DMT side effects to be aware of are the following:
- Sleep disturbances – This refers to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving restful sleep. Factors like stress, anxiety, depression, and pain can affect sleep quality. DMT is believed to help maintain healthy sleep cycles linked to dreaming, especially during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. While the DMT produced in the brain may regulate REM sleep, consuming external DMT can disrupt this balance and impact overall sleep quality.
- Anxiety and panic attacks – DMT acts as a serotonin agonist, binding to the same receptors as serotonin, a key neurotransmitter for mood regulation. Some people find that low doses of DMT reduce anxiety by increasing serotonin levels, though experiences vary. Both too much and too little serotonin can trigger anxiety, making those with anxiety disorders more prone to panic attacks when using DMT.
- Hallucinations – DMT is a hallucinogen that can cause sensations and perceptions that aren’t real. This common side effect is one reason people try the drug. While some may find hallucinations enjoyable, others may find them frightening.
- Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting – Some experience dizziness, confusion, and digestive issues after consuming DMT, particularly as ayahuasca. In spiritual ceremonies, purging is viewed as a cleansing process. While vomiting can be seen as a necessary side effect in this context, it can still be unpleasant.
- Tremors – DMT can increase serotonin levels, raising the risk of serotonin syndrome or excess serotonin. This can lead to tremors, shivering, muscle stiffness, and spasms.
- Paranoia – DMT can induce feelings of paranoia, leading to the belief that others might harm you. This side effect is more common in individuals with a history of mental health issues, especially schizophrenia, and can trigger schizophrenia in some cases.
Of course, the side effects of DMT use depend on various factors, including dosage, method of consumption, individual reactions, and any underlying health conditions. It is essential to approach DMT and other psychedelics with caution, respect, and proper knowledge.
How Substance Abuse Treatment Can Help
DMT is not considered addictive, but like any psychoactive substance, it can be habit-forming. Continued use may lead to tolerance, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effects, which can increase the risk of adverse side effects and harm your physical and mental health.
If you or someone you know has developed a dependence on DMT or other party drugs, seeking professional help is essential. My 5 Palms offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment programs that cover all aspects of recovery—from detox to relapse prevention. Our experienced team understands the complexities of substance abuse and provides personalized care to help clients heal physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Connect with My 5 Palms and Start Substance Abuse Treatment in Florida
Using party drugs like dimethyltryptamine can be risky. If you or someone you know is facing troubling DMT side effects, it’s essential to seek professional help. Contact My 5 Palms online or call 1.844.675.1022 to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs.