Natural Psychedelics · Compound
DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine)
2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-N,N-dimethylethanamine (N,N-dimethyltryptamine; C12H16N2) · also called DMT, N,N-DMT
DMT is a psychedelic compound found in many plants and in small amounts in animals, and it is one of the active ingredients of the Amazonian brew ayahuasca. Given by vein in clinics, its effects last only minutes. One small trial found it lowered depression scores more than placebo at 2 weeks, but the evidence is early and the authors had industry ties. Main caution: with ayahuasca, MAO inhibitors can combine with antidepressants and some cough medicines to cause serious serotonin syndrome.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine)
DMT (N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is a short-acting psychedelic compound. One small randomised trial suggests it may lower depression scores in the short term, but the evidence is early, small and industry-linked. The main risks are rises in blood pressure and heart rate, intense psychological effects, rare psychosis, and dangerous interactions when it is combined with MAO inhibitors and serotonin-raising drugs, as in ayahuasca.
What it is
DMT is a tryptamine alkaloid with formula C12H16N2 (PubChem CID 6089). A review describes it as widely found in plants and animals. It appears to act on serotonin 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors.
Swallowed alone, DMT is nearly inactive because the enzyme MAO-A breaks it down. In ayahuasca, alkaloids from a vine block that enzyme. After an infusion in a trial, its half-life was 9 to 12 minutes.
What the research shows
Depression: in a 34-person Phase IIa trial, the DMT group had a larger fall in depression score at 2 weeks than placebo (mean difference -7.35; 95% CI -13.62 to -1.08). Later results were open-label with no control. Authors worked for or held shares in the developer companies.
A separate 29-person trial of the ayahuasca brew also found lower depression scores than placebo for up to 7 days, but a brew has several active compounds.
Brain imaging shows large changes in network activity. Stroke and nerve-cell protection results are from rats and cells only.
Ayahuasca, tradition and clinical research
Ayahuasca comes from ceremonial traditions in the Amazon. This page describes only what the research sources say and does not cover the peoples and practices in detail. Tradition and clinical evidence are different things.
Legal status
Laws differ by country and change. Regulator pages read on 2026-10-25: in the United States DMT is in Schedule I (21 CFR 1308.11); it is listed in Schedule I of the 1971 UN Convention; and it is a UK Class A drug. Reported international treatment of ayahuasca plants differs but we could not verify the primary source. This is not legal advice.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- DMT is one active alkaloid in ayahuasca, a plant-based brew from Amazonian ceremonial traditions. Which peoples use it and how is not covered by the sources we read, and tradition is not clinical evidence.
- Modern research on intravenous DMT for depression is recent, with a Phase IIa trial published in 2026.
Studied for research
- Major depression (pharmaceutical DMT by vein): low certainty, one small trial
- Depression and ayahuasca (a brew, not DMT alone): low certainty, one small trial
- Brain imaging research: not a health benefit
- Brain protection after stroke: animal and lab only, very low
- Anxiety, PTSD, addiction: no controlled trials of DMT alone found
Main compounds
- DMT itself (C12H16N2)
- Harmine, harmaline and tetrahydroharmine: MAO-inhibiting alkaloids in ayahuasca, not DMT
- 5-MeO-DMT: a different compound
Common forms
- Pharmaceutical DMT given by infusion in clinical trials
- Ayahuasca (a traditional brew)
Research links: NIDA: Hallucinogens · eCFR: 21 CFR 1308.11 Schedule I · UN 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances · UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, Schedule 2 · Nature Medicine 2026: Phase IIa DMT trial (PubMed) · PubChem: N,N-Dimethyltryptamine · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Name
- N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT); PubChem IUPAC name 2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-N,N-dimethylethanamine
- Other names
- Dimethyltryptamine; N,N-DMT; DMT
- Common names
- DMT (English)
- Chemical class
- Indole alkaloid, a tryptamine (a simple molecule related to serotonin). Not a plant itself.
- Related or similar compounds
- Name: 5-MeO-DMT; Note: A different compound (PubChem CID 1832, C13H18N2O) listed separately in US Schedule I.; Name: Psilocin; Note: Another tryptamine (CID 4980) made from psilocybin; different compound.; Name: Harmine and harmaline; Note: Beta-carboline MAO-inhibiting alkaloids in the ayahuasca vine (CIDs 5280953 and 3564); not DMT.
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Amazonian ceremonial traditions | Ayahuasca, a plant-based brew whose active alkaloids include DMT, comes from Amazonian ceremonial traditions (Indigenous peoples of the northwestern Amazon). Details of specific peoples were not in the sources read. | p28540034 |
| Modern research | Early clinical trials of intravenous DMT for depression began in the 2020s; a Phase IIa randomised trial was published in 2026. | p41699126 |
| Endogenous DMT research | A 2018 review gives a historical overview of research on DMT made in the body; its role remains unresolved. | p30127713 |
History shows how a substance was used or discovered. It does not show that a product works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DMT (N,N-dimethyltryptamine) PubChem 6089 | tryptamine alkaloid | Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana plants in ayahuasca (per a case report) | Agonist at serotonin 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors; also acts on sigma-1 receptor. 8 20 | Review |
| Harmine, harmaline and tetrahydroharmine | beta-carboline alkaloids | Banisteriopsis caapi vine in ayahuasca | Block MAO-A so that swallowed DMT is not broken down. 8 24 | Review |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor | 5-HT2A receptor | DMT is a 5-HT2A agonist; brain-network changes in healthy volunteers mapped onto 5-HT2A receptor distribution. 21 8 | Human imaging |
| Sigma-1 receptor | sigma-1 receptor | In rats and human cells, DMT protection from low oxygen and stroke depended partly on the sigma-1 receptor. Animal and lab only. 20 14 | Animal and lab |
| MAO-A | monoamine oxidase A | MAO-A breaks down DMT; MAO-A inhibitors greatly raise its bioavailability and duration of action. 8 10 | Review |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Swallowed DMT alone is nearly inactive because of rapid first-pass metabolism; with MAO-A inhibitors its availability and duration greatly increase (review).
- Distribution
- Plasma protein binding and lipophilicity were low in lab tests, so a high share is free to distribute and be metabolised.
- Metabolism
- Cleared mainly by MAO-A; inhibition of CYP2D6 and to a lesser extent CYP2C19 also reduced clearance in lab tests.
- Elimination
- After a 10-minute intravenous infusion in 24 healthy adults the mean elimination half-life was 9 to 12 minutes.
- Bioavailability
- See absorption.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
Pharmaceutical DMT given by infusion in a clinic is a single defined compound. Ayahuasca is a brew of several plants with several active alkaloids, and non-medical DMT products vary. Results for one do not apply to the others.
Nutritional composition
DMT is not a nutrient and has no nutritional role.
2 low certainty1 very low certainty3 not enough evidence
What is DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) good for?
The areas people ask about and how strong the human evidence is for each. Most results come from small early trials of a pharmaceutical form given in clinics. None of this makes DMT an approved or proven treatment.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Major depression (pharmaceutical DMT given by vein, in trials)
Low certaintyOne small randomised trial found that a single supervised infusion of pharmaceutical DMT lowered depression scores more than placebo after 2 weeks. It is early research. DMT is not an approved treatment for depression.
3 studiesStudied as an intravenous pharmaceutical form (DMT fumarate) given in…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One Phase IIa randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (34 adults with moderate-to-severe depression) and one open-label Phase I pilot (7 patients with treatment-resistant depression and 3 healthy volunteers). Both used intravenous DMT in clinics, with supportive care.
Results
Phase IIa (Nature Medicine 2026): at 2 weeks the DMT group had a larger fall in the MADRS depression score than placebo (mean difference -7.35; 95% CI -13.62 to -1.08; P = 0.023). Afterwards everyone could take a second infusion; benefits persisted up to 3 months, but that part had no control group. Open-label pilot (2022): next-day HAMD-17 fell by a mean of 4.5 points (95% CI -7.80 to -1.20) in 7 patients, with no control group.
Effect sizes as reported
A moderate-sized average fall in depression scores at 2 weeks in one small trial; the confidence range is wide, from a small to a large difference.
Why this rating
Only one small randomised trial (34 people), with a wide confidence range. Only 2 weeks were blinded. Authors of that trial worked for or held shares in companies developing DMT. With a drug this strong people can often tell what they received (a known problem in psychedelic trials; the abstract does not report on it). No replication yet.
Form and dose studied
Studied as an intravenous pharmaceutical form (DMT fumarate) given in a clinic with psychotherapeutic support. This says nothing about DMT made or taken outside medicine.
Who was studied
Adults with major depressive disorder, including treatment-resistant depression. Mostly screened and supervised.
Limits
Small numbers; short blinded period; industry links; trial product is not the same as any non-medical product.
Why researchers looked
Depression often does not respond to usual treatments. DMT acts very fast and wears off within minutes, so researchers have asked whether a short session could help.
Traditional use
Not covered for the isolated compound. DMT is one of the active alkaloids in the Amazonian brew ayahuasca, which Indigenous peoples of the Amazon have used in ceremony for generations. Tradition is not clinical evidence.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
DMT activates serotonin receptors, mainly 5-HT2A, and is thought to affect brain plasticity. How or whether this causes any antidepressant effect in people is not shown by these trials.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Brief anxiety, nausea and infusion-site pain in the trial; blood pressure and heart rate rise in other trials. See the Safety tab.
Depression and ayahuasca (a brew, not DMT alone)
Low certaintyA small trial found that the Amazonian brew ayahuasca lowered depression scores more than placebo for up to 7 days. Ayahuasca contains DMT plus other active alkaloids, so the result cannot be credited to DMT alone.
2 studiesStudied as a plant-based brew given once in a clinical setting. Not t…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial in 29 patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Results
MADRS scores were lower with ayahuasca than placebo at day 1 and day 2 (p = 0.04) and day 7 (p < 0.0001). Response at day 7 was 64% vs 27% (p = 0.04). Remission 36% vs 7% (p = 0.054, a trend, not clear).
Effect sizes as reported
Large between-group differences at day 7 (Cohen's d about 1.5) in 29 people; effect sizes from small trials are often overestimated.
Why this rating
Very small trial with only 7 days of follow-up. A mixture of compounds, not DMT alone. Not a replication of the DMT trial.
Form and dose studied
Studied as a plant-based brew given once in a clinical setting. Not the same as isolated pharmaceutical DMT.
Who was studied
Adults with treatment-resistant depression.
Limits
Small trial, short follow-up, a brew with several active compounds.
Why researchers looked
Ayahuasca is used in ceremony in the Amazon and is now studied in clinics for depression.
Traditional use
Not covered for the isolated compound. DMT is one of the active alkaloids in the Amazonian brew ayahuasca, which Indigenous peoples of the Amazon have used in ceremony for generations. Tradition is not clinical evidence.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Ayahuasca combines DMT with beta-carboline alkaloids that block the enzyme MAO-A, which lets DMT work when swallowed. The brew has several active compounds.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
The MAO-inhibiting alkaloids in ayahuasca interact with many medicines. See the Safety tab.
How DMT changes brain activity (research tool)
Not enough evidenceBrain scans of healthy volunteers show that DMT strongly changes how brain networks talk to each other. This helps scientists study consciousness. It is not a health benefit.
2 studiesIntravenous DMT in a research lab.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One within-subject, placebo-controlled EEG-fMRI study in 20 healthy volunteers.
Results
DMT produced a deeply immersive altered state, robust increases in global functional connectivity, network disintegration and desegregation, and a compression of the main cortical gradient.
Effect sizes as reported
Large measurable changes in brain imaging; no health outcome measured.
Why this rating
These are imaging results in healthy people. They do not show benefit.
Form and dose studied
Intravenous DMT in a research lab.
Who was studied
Healthy adult volunteers.
Limits
Imaging, not clinical outcomes; small group.
Why researchers looked
Scientists use DMT to study the brain basis of consciousness because it acts quickly and wears off fast.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Controlled trial
DMT is a 5-HT2A receptor agonist. Changes in connectivity were strongest where 5-HT2A receptors are most plentiful.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Intense psychological effects by design.
Protection of brain cells and recovery after stroke (animal and lab research only)
Very low certaintyIn rats and in human cells in a dish, DMT protected brain tissue from low oxygen and stroke damage. There are no human results in the sources we read.
2 studiesLaboratory use only.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
None in the sources read. The 2025 rat study says DMT is under clinical evaluation after stroke but reports no human data.
Results
Rat stroke model: smaller damage, less brain swelling, restored blood-brain barrier, lower inflammatory signals. Human neurons and immune cells in severe low oxygen survived better with DMT through the sigma-1 receptor.
Effect sizes as reported
Effects in animals and cells only; sizes are not meaningful for people.
Why this rating
Animal and cell-culture research. Many protective findings in animals do not hold in people.
Form and dose studied
Laboratory use only.
Who was studied
Rats and human cells in culture.
Limits
No human trial data in the sources read.
Why researchers looked
DMT acts on the sigma-1 receptor, which helps cells cope with stress, so researchers tested whether it protects brain cells.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Animal research
Activation of the sigma-1 receptor, reduced inflammation and a more stable blood-brain barrier were seen in animals and cells.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Not assessed in these studies.
The body's own DMT: is it a natural signalling molecule?
Not enough evidenceSmall amounts of DMT have been reported in the bodies of people and other mammals. Scientists still do not know what, if anything, it does there.
2 studiesNot applicable.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Review of detection in body fluids and brain, not a test of benefit.
Results
The author concludes the natural role is unresolved and must be separated from the effects of DMT given from outside.
Effect sizes as reported
Not applicable.
Why this rating
This is a research question, not a benefit.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable.
Who was studied
Not applicable.
Limits
Hypothesis-building review.
Why researchers looked
Because DMT turns up in the body, researchers ask whether it is a natural neurotransmitter.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Hypothesis
Proposed role as a trace amine and possible neurotransmitter; unresolved.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
None.
Anxiety, PTSD, addiction and other conditions
Not enough evidenceReviews mention DMT as a possible tool for anxiety, psychosis or addiction, but we found no controlled trials of DMT alone for these.
2 studiesn/a
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
None found in the sources read. The 2024 review says synthetic DMT with MAO inhibitors is promising in trials for several conditions, but trials of DMT alone for these conditions were not identified in the sources read.
Results
No results to report.
Effect sizes as reported
Not applicable.
Why this rating
No controlled evidence in the sources we read.
Form and dose studied
n/a
Who was studied
n/a
Limits
No trials identified.
Why researchers looked
Interest comes from ayahuasca research and early lab work.
Traditional use
See ayahuasca tradition notes.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Same serotonin-receptor and plasticity ideas as for depression; not tested for these conditions.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not treat DMT as a therapy for these conditions.
Connections to the rest of health
How DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
B. Body systems
C. Body parts and organs
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brain | Moderate certainty | 5-HT2A-driven altered state and network changes. Preparation or compound: DMT |
21 8 | |
| Heart and blood vessels | Adverse effect or risk | Moderate certainty | Higher blood pressure and heart rate. Preparation or compound: Intravenous DMT |
19 5 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depression score (MADRS) | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 9 18 |
| Next-day depression score (HAMD-17) | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 6 |
| Brain network connectivity | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: increased. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 21 |
| Cell survival in low oxygen | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: increased. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 20 |
J. Genes, receptors and enzymes
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DMT (N,N-dimethyltryptamine) | Biological association | Review | Agonist at serotonin 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors; also acts on sigma-1 receptor. Preparation or compound: Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana plants in ayahuasca (per a case report) |
8 20 |
| Harmine, harmaline and tetrahydroharmine | Biological association | Review | Block MAO-A so that swallowed DMT is not broken down. Preparation or compound: Banisteriopsis caapi vine in ayahuasca |
8 24 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 25, 2026).
Evidence at a glance: what changed in 2 lab markers
Tap a number to show only those markers. Counts are markers, not people.
The evidence
The research centre for DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine). Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We searched PubMed and read the abstracts of the 18 papers cited, read regulator text for US, UN and UK status on 2026-10-25, and confirmed the chemical record in PubChem. Certainty ratings are the compilers' reading. Only abstracts were read.
Study library: every study we checked 25
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albert 2026 Psychedelic exposure in pregnancy: a scoping review to inform perinatal drug safety and clinical counseling. Therapeutic advances in drug safety · PMID 41930230 · DOI |
Scoping review review |
23 23 human sources on MDMA, LSD and mescaline/peyote |
Prenatal exposure to psychedelics n/a Not summarised here Through March 2025 · vs n/a |
No eligible primary human pregnancy-outcome studies were found for psilocybin or DMT/ayahuasca. The authors say absence of data should not be read as evidence of safety. No human data for DMT in pregnancy Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pregnancy outcomes Limitations: Scoping review; no risk-of-bias assessment. Funding and conflicts: No conflict of interest declared. Read: abstract |
| America's Poison Centers / HRSA 2026 Poison Help (US): 1-800-222-1222 poison.org · Source |
Authoritative guidance n/a |
General public | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
The page gives 1-800-222-1222 and describes the service as free, expert and confidential. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Poison control contact Limitations: Round-the-clock availability was not stated in the part read. Read: summary |
| Barker 2018 N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), an Endogenous Hallucinogen: Past, Present, and Future Research to Determine Its Role and Function. Frontiers in neuroscience · PMID 30127713 · DOI |
Narrative review review |
Review of research on DMT made in the body | Endogenous DMT n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs n/a |
Historical review of research on DMT made in the brain and other tissues, how it is detected in body fluids and brain, and whether it acts as a neurotransmitter. The author proposes new experiments and stresses that the natural role of DMT is still not resolved and must be separated from the effects seen when it is given from outside. The body's own role for DMT is still an open question Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Biosynthesis, detection, possible role Limitations: A hypothesis-building review. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract. Read: abstract |
| Callaway 1998 Ayahuasca preparations and serotonin reuptake inhibitors: a potential combination for severe adverse interactions. Journal of psychoactive drugs · PMID 9924842 · DOI |
Expert commentary human-pharmacology-reasoning |
n/a | Ayahuasca preparations with SSRI antidepressants n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs n/a |
Warns that the monoamine oxidase-inhibiting harmala alkaloids in ayahuasca combined with SSRI antidepressants may cause a serotonin syndrome with potentially grave outcome, and advises caution combining ayahuasca with certain pharmaceutical drugs. Warning based on pharmacology Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Interaction warning Limitations: A 1998 short article, not a trial. Funding and conflicts: Not stated. Read: abstract |
| Carbonaro 2016 Neuropharmacology of N,N-dimethyltryptamine. Brain research bulletin · PMID 27126737 · DOI |
Narrative review review |
Review of pharmacology, endogenous role and adverse effects | DMT n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs n/a |
Review. DMT is an indole alkaloid widely found in plants and animals, known for brief, intense psychedelic effects. It appears to have limited neurotoxicity and other adverse effects except for intense cardiovascular effects when given intravenously in large doses. Endogenous DMT may act as a neurotransmitter; the authors suggest it may be a useful research tool and possibly a clinical tool for anxiety and psychosis. Background review Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pharmacology, adverse effects Limitations: Published 2016; suggestions about anxiety and psychosis are hypotheses. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract. Read: abstract |
| D'Souza 2022 Exploratory study of the dose-related safety, tolerability, and efficacy of dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in healthy volunteers and major depressive disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology · PMID 35660802 · DOI |
Open label pilot |
10 7 adults with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and 3 healthy volunteers |
Intravenous DMT in a hospital setting with minimal psychotherapy n/a Not summarised here Two sessions, next-day depression check · vs None (open-label, fixed order) |
Open-label Phase I pilot in a hospital. DMT was tolerated by all 10 and there were no dropouts. In the 7 people with depression, HAMD-17 scores fell the day after the higher session (mean difference -4.5 points; 95% CI -7.80 to -1.20; P = 0.017). Adverse events were mostly mild with one self-limited serious event. DMT raised blood pressure, heart rate, anxiety, psychedelic and psychosis-like effects, which resolved within 20 to 30 minutes. Lower next-day depression score in 7 patients, with no control group Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Safety, blood pressure, heart rate, psychedelic effects, HAMD-17 depression score one day after dosing Limitations: Ten people, no placebo, fixed order of sessions, short follow-up. Funding and conflicts: Authors declared no competing interests; US government and NIH funding listed. Read: abstract |
| Dos Santos 2017 Ayahuasca, dimethyltryptamine, and psychosis: a systematic review of human studies. Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology · PMID 28540034 · DOI |
Systematic review |
Published case reports and case series | Ayahuasca and DMT outside and inside controlled settings n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs n/a |
Three case series and two case reports described psychotic episodes after ayahuasca, and three case reports after DMT. Several people had a personal or family history of psychosis, mania or other drug use, but some did not. The episodes appear rare. The authors advise that people with a personal or family history of psychotic illness or nonpsychotic mania should avoid hallucinogens. Rare psychotic episodes, mostly in people with risk factors Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Psychotic episodes Limitations: Case reports cannot give rates. Funding and conflicts: Fellowship funding only; sponsors had no role. Read: abstract |
| Egger 2024 Neurobiological research on N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and its potentiation by monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition: from ayahuasca to synthetic combinations of DMT and MAO inhibitors. Cellular and molecular life sciences · PMID 39254764 · DOI |
Narrative review review |
Review of pharmacology and neuroscience | DMT, beta-carbolines, ayahuasca n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs n/a |
Narrative review. DMT is an integral but not exclusive psychoactive alkaloid in the Amazonian brew ayahuasca, in which beta-carboline MAO-A inhibitors potentiate oral DMT. It presumably acts through serotonin 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors. Because of rapid first-pass metabolism DMT is nearly inactive by mouth alone; MAO-A inhibitors greatly increase its bioavailability and duration of action. Background pharmacology Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pharmacology, receptors, MAO inhibition Limitations: A narrative review, not a systematic one. Funding and conflicts: One author co-founded an academic spin-off (Reconnect Labs). Read: abstract |
| Erritzoe 2026 A short-acting psychedelic intervention for major depressive disorder: a phase IIa randomized placebo-controlled trial. Nature medicine · PMID 41699126 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
34 Adults with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder |
Intravenous DMT fumarate (a pharmaceutical form, SPL026) with supportive psychotherapy n/a Not summarised here 2-week blinded comparison; open-label follow-up to 3 months · vs Placebo |
Phase IIa double-blind trial, 34 adults randomised (17 and 17). At 2 weeks the DMT group had a larger fall in MADRS score than placebo (mean difference -7.35; 95% CI -13.62 to -1.08; P = 0.023). In the later open-label phase all took a second infusion; effects persisted up to 3 months with no significant difference between one and two infusions. Adverse events were mostly mild to moderate (infusion site pain, nausea, brief anxiety). No serious adverse events. Larger fall in depression score than placebo at 2 weeks in a small trial Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Change in MADRS depression score at 2 weeks; response; remission; adverse events Limitations: Small trial; only the 2-week comparison was blinded; the 3-month results are open-label with no control group; the abstract does not say how well people could guess which arm they were in; several authors worked for or held shares in the developer companies. Funding and conflicts: Industry-linked: authors were employed by or held shares in Small Pharma/Cybin; some advise other psychedelic companies (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04673383). Read: abstract |
| Good 2023 Pharmacokinetics of N,N-dimethyltryptamine in Humans. European journal of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics · PMID 37086340 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
24 24 healthy adults (Phase I part of a Phase I/IIa trial) plus lab experiments |
Intravenous DMT fumarate (SPL026) given as a 10-minute infusion n/a Not summarised here Single sessions · vs Placebo-controlled escalation |
In lab tests, clearance of DMT was reduced when MAO-A, CYP2D6 and to a lesser extent CYP2C19 were inhibited. In 24 healthy people given a 10-minute infusion, DMT was cleared very fast: mean elimination half-life was 9 to 12 minutes. All doses were safe and well tolerated. Very short half-life after intravenous infusion Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Plasma levels, half-life, metabolism Limitations: Pharmaceutical infusion, healthy adults; does not describe other routes. Funding and conflicts: Industry-linked: authors employed by Small Pharma (NCT04673383). Read: abstract |
| Halman 2024 Drug-drug interactions involving classic psychedelics: A systematic review. Journal of psychopharmacology · PMID 37982394 · DOI |
Systematic review review |
52 human studies: 32 LSD, 10 psilocybin, 4 mescaline, 3 DMT, 2 5-MeO-DMT, 1 ayahuasca | Classic psychedelics combined with other drugs n/a Not summarised here To Sept 2023 · vs n/a |
Only 3 DMT studies and 1 ayahuasca study were found. Across all classic psychedelics, combining with other drugs produced attenuated effects, potentiated effects and no change. Apart from a few case reports no serious adverse drug events were described. Little DMT-specific interaction data Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Interactions Limitations: Mostly LSD; little on DMT. Funding and conflicts: Two authors lead a non-profit institute that has had commercial funding for psychedelic research. Read: abstract |
| Hinkle 2024 Adverse Events in Studies of Classic Psychedelics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA psychiatry · PMID 39230883 · DOI |
Meta-analysis |
3504 214 studies of LSD, psilocybin, DMT and 5-MeO-DMT; 114 had usable adverse-event data |
Classic psychedelics in clinical or research settings (not DMT only) n/a Not summarised here Through Feb 2024 · vs Varied |
Serious adverse events were reported for no healthy participants and for about 4% of participants with pre-existing neuropsychiatric disorders (worsening depression, suicidal behaviour, psychosis, convulsive episodes). In contemporary research settings no deaths by suicide, persistent psychotic disorders or hallucinogen persisting perception disorders were reported. Monitoring and reporting quality varied widely. The common-event meta-analyses were for psilocybin and LSD. Generally well tolerated in research settings, with some serious events Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Serious and non-serious adverse events Limitations: Pools several substances; the numbers are not DMT-specific; research settings only. Funding and conflicts: Philanthropic support to the authors' centre listed. Read: abstract |
| International Narcotics Control Board (via ICEERS) 2010 INCB position on ayahuasca (as reported by ICEERS, citing the INCB 2010 report) ICEERS summary · Source |
Secondary source n/a |
General public | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
A web search summary of ICEERS material says the INCB has said ayahuasca and the plants that make it are not under international control even though DMT is scheduled, and that countries may regulate it themselves. The INCB report itself was not read. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: International legal status of ayahuasca Limitations: Secondary source from an advocacy group; INCB text not read; no newer INCB statement found. Read: not-read-primary |
| László 2025 N,N-dimethyltryptamine mitigates experimental stroke by stabilizing the blood-brain barrier and reducing neuroinflammation. Science advances · PMID 40802766 · DOI |
Animal and lab animal-and-lab |
Rats with induced stroke, plus cell cultures | DMT given to animals and cells n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs Untreated controls |
In a rat model of stroke, DMT reduced the volume of damage, reduced brain swelling, restored tight junctions and blood-brain barrier function, and reduced inflammatory signals, partly through the sigma-1 receptor. This is animal and cell research only. Protective effects in rats and cells Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Infarct size, brain swelling, blood-brain barrier, inflammation Limitations: Animal and lab study; the authors note DMT is under clinical evaluation after stroke but this paper reports no human results. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract. Read: abstract |
| NCBI PubChem 2026 PubChem: N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, CID 6089 PubChem REST API · Source |
Database n/a |
Chemical record | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
PubChem CID 6089, title "N,N-Dimethyltryptamine", formula C12H16N2, molecular weight 188.27, IUPAC name 2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-N,N-dimethylethanamine, also listed as DEA No. 7435. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Name, formula and structure Limitations: Database record retrieved 2026-10-25. Read: API |
| National Institute on Drug Abuse 2026 NIDA: Hallucinogens (psychedelic and dissociative drugs) NIDA · Source |
Authoritative guidance n/a |
General public | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
NIDA describes DMT as a chemical found in Amazon rainforest plants sometimes brewed into ayahuasca; says psychedelics mainly act on 5-HT2A receptors; lists mild-to-moderate short-term effects (headache, nausea, heart rate changes), fear or anxiety, a risk of serotonin syndrome with medicines that raise serotonin, possible fentanyl contamination of illicit drugs, and rare HPPD. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Government summary of effects and risks Limitations: General page, not DMT-specific; read through a page summary tool on 2026-10-25. Read: summary |
| Pack 2026 Severe Serotonin Syndrome With Acute Respiratory Failure Following Ayahuasca and Dextromethorphan Use: A Case Report. Cureus · PMID 42713547 · DOI |
Case report |
1 A 46-year-old man |
Ayahuasca over three days, then over-the-counter dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs n/a |
Severe serotonin syndrome with acute respiratory failure needing intubation and intensive care, after ayahuasca followed by dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine. He recovered and was extubated on ICU day 2. The authors say ayahuasca's MAO-inhibitor content predisposes people to serotonin toxicity with other serotonergic agents. One life-threatening case Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Serotonin syndrome Limitations: Single case; cannot give rates. Funding and conflicts: No funding or conflicts declared. Read: abstract |
| Palhano-Fontes 2019 Rapid antidepressant effects of the psychedelic ayahuasca in treatment-resistant depression: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Psychological medicine · PMID 29903051 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
29 Adults with treatment-resistant depression |
Ayahuasca brew (not DMT alone; also contains MAO-inhibiting alkaloids) n/a Not summarised here Single session, follow-up to day 7 · vs Placebo |
Double-blind trial in 29 people. MADRS scores were lower with ayahuasca than placebo at day 1 and 2 (p = 0.04) and day 7 (p < 0.0001). Response at day 7 was 64% vs 27% (p = 0.04); remission 36% vs 7% (p = 0.054, a trend). Lower depression scores than placebo up to 7 days Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: MADRS and Hamilton depression scores, response, remission Limitations: Small trial; a brew with several active compounds, so results cannot be credited to DMT alone; only 7 days. Funding and conflicts: Funding not given in abstract (NCT02914769). Read: abstract |
| Swieczkowski 2025 Safety and tolerability of NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in healthy volunteers and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) patients: A systematic review of early-phase clinical trials. Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry · PMID 40484114 · DOI |
Systematic review |
5 5 early-phase trials, mostly healthy volunteers |
DMT by intravenous, inhaled, oral and intranasal routes in trials n/a Not summarised here Trials up to Oct 2024 · vs Varied |
Five trials from 505 records. Intravenous trials showed rises in systolic blood pressure (up to 25.7%) and heart rate that resolved quickly. The inhaled trial reported mild throat discomfort and respiratory irritation; oral and intranasal trials noted mild nausea and dizziness. No serious adverse events. Psychotomimetic effects such as ego dissolution were dose-dependent but manageable. Randomised trials had low to moderate risk of bias; non-randomised trials had serious risk. Generally well tolerated in supervised early-phase trials Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Safety and tolerability Limitations: Few trials, mostly healthy volunteers, supervised settings only. Funding and conflicts: Funded by Medical University of Gdańsk; some authors report ties to pharmaceutical companies. Read: abstract |
| Szabo 2016 The Endogenous Hallucinogen and Trace Amine N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) Displays Potent Protective Effects against Hypoxia via Sigma-1 Receptor Activation in Human Primary iPSC-Derived Cortical Neurons and Microglia-Like Immune Cells. Frontiers in neuroscience · PMID 27683542 · DOI |
Lab lab |
Human cell cultures (neurons and immune cells) | DMT added to cells in low-oxygen conditions n/a Not summarised here n/a · vs Untreated cells |
DMT robustly increased survival of human stem-cell-derived cortical neurons and immune cells in severe low oxygen, through the sigma-1 receptor. Laboratory cell research only. Cells survived better in low oxygen Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cell survival under low oxygen Limitations: Cells in a dish; not tested in people. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract read. Read: abstract |
| Timmermann 2023 Human brain effects of DMT assessed via EEG-fMRI. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences · PMID 36940333 · DOI |
Crossover imaging |
20 20 healthy volunteers |
Intravenous DMT versus placebo, with EEG and fMRI scanning n/a Not summarised here Single sessions · vs Placebo (within the same people) |
In 20 healthy volunteers, DMT (a 5-HT2A receptor agonist) produced a deeply immersive, altered state and robust increases in global functional connectivity, network disintegration and desegregation, and a compression of the main cortical gradient. The changes mapped onto where 5-HT2A receptors are most plentiful. Large, measurable changes in brain network activity Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Brain connectivity and network changes Limitations: Healthy volunteers; brain imaging shows what the brain does, not whether anyone benefits. Funding and conflicts: No competing interests declared. Read: abstract |
| US Drug Enforcement Administration / eCFR 2026 eCFR: 21 CFR 1308.11 Schedule I (version dated 2026-10-21) eCFR · Source |
Regulation n/a |
General public | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
Section 1308.11(d), hallucinogenic substances, lists "(19) Dimethyltryptamine 7435, some trade or other names: DMT" and, separately, 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (7431). Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: US legal status Limitations: Federal rule only; states and other countries differ; text read via the eCFR API on 2026-10-25. Read: full-text |
| United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime 1971 UNODC: Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971 (list of substances in the schedules) UNODC · Source |
Regulation n/a |
General public | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
The list of Substances in Schedule I includes "DMT, 3-[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]indole". Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: International legal status Limitations: The UNODC copy of the convention was read on 2026-10-25; later changes to the schedules were not checked. Each country decides its own law. Read: full-text |
| White 2024 Ayahuasca and Dimethyltryptamine Adverse Events and Toxicity Analysis: A Systematic Thematic Review. International journal of toxicology · PMID 38363085 · DOI |
Systematic review review |
78 articles on ayahuasca, DMT and the harmala alkaloids | Ayahuasca preparations and DMT, harmine, harmaline, tetrahydroharmine n/a Not summarised here To 2023 · vs n/a |
Ayahuasca or DMT is generally safe in controlled settings, but some adverse human events were reported. Animal studies using higher amounts of ayahuasca showed abortifacient and teratogenic effects. Isolated harmala alkaloids showed possible toxicity at higher doses, which may rise with certain medicines; harmaline showed the most issues in preclinical models. Serious adverse effects were rarely reported in healthy people. Mostly safe in controlled settings; some adverse events; animal pregnancy harms Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Adverse events and toxicity Limitations: Thematic review; animal results may not carry to people. Funding and conflicts: No competing interests declared. Read: abstract |
| legislation.gov.uk 2026 UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, Schedule 2, Part I (Class A drugs) legislation.gov.uk · Source |
Regulation n/a |
General public | n/a n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine appears in the Part I list of UK Class A drugs in Schedule 2. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: UK legal status Limitations: Page read on 2026-10-25; the page shows revised text and amendment notes. Read: full-text |
What we do not know yet
- Only one randomised, placebo-controlled trial of DMT alone in depression, small and industry-linked.
- No trials of DMT alone for anxiety, PTSD, addiction or stroke found in the sources read.
- No human pregnancy or breastfeeding data.
- Long-term effects and repeated exposure are not described.
- Legal status outside the US, UN and UK was not checked.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and placed in a review queue. A person checks each one before the page changes. Last updated 2026-10-25.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 4
Depression score (MADRS)
Lowered in trials
A clinician-rated scale of depression severity; higher means more severe.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
It is the main outcome used in depression trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Both trials are small. Benefit for DMT itself rests on one randomised trial.
Safety implication
Anxiety and blood pressure effects during the session.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Mean difference -7.35 points versus placebo at 2 weeks (95% CI -13.62 to -1.08; P = 0.023). | 34 adults with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder | Intravenous DMT fumarate with supportive psychotherapy vs placebo |
| 18 | Lower MADRS with ayahuasca than placebo at day 1, 2 (p = 0.04) and day 7 (p < 0.0001). | 29 adults with treatment-resistant depression | Ayahuasca (brew) vs placebo |
Next-day depression score (HAMD-17)
Lowered in trials
Another clinician-rated depression scale with 17 items.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used in the pilot study to see whether mood changed the day after a session.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
No control group, 7 patients.
Safety implication
Raised blood pressure and heart rate during the session.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Mean fall of 4.5 points the day after the higher session (95% CI -7.80 to -1.20; P = 0.017). | 7 adults with treatment-resistant depression (plus 3 healthy volunteers) | Intravenous DMT, open label, no placebo |
Brain network connectivity
Increased in trials
How strongly different brain regions work in step, measured with fMRI.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Why it was measured
It shows how a drug changes brain function.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Shows an effect on the brain, not a benefit.
Safety implication
Strong altered state.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | Robust increases in global functional connectivity under DMT versus placebo. | 20 healthy volunteers | Intravenous DMT vs placebo, EEG-fMRI |
Cell survival in low oxygen
Increased in trials
The share of cells that stay alive when oxygen is very low.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 6
- Mixing DMT-containing brews with other medicines can be life-threatening. Ayahuasca contains alkaloids that block the enzyme MAO-A. With antidepressants that raise serotonin, or with some cough and cold medicines, this has caused serotonin syndrome. One 2026 case report describes severe serotonin syndrome with respiratory failure and intensive care after ayahuasca followed by dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine. DMT on its own is broken down by MAO-A, so blocking that enzyme also changes how DMT acts. Case report 17 4 8 16
- Heart rate and blood pressure rise. In early trials intravenous DMT raised systolic blood pressure (up to 25.7% in some trials) and heart rate. These settled within minutes and were monitored by clinicians. A review notes intense cardiovascular effects when given by vein in large amounts. People with heart disease or high blood pressure were not the main groups studied. Systematic review 19 5 6
- Psychosis and mania risk. Case reports describe psychotic episodes after ayahuasca and after DMT. Many involved a personal or family history of psychosis or mania, or other drug use, but some did not. The authors advise people with such histories to avoid hallucinogens. Episodes appear rare. Systematic review 7
- Intense psychological effects and frightening experiences. DMT causes a deeply altered state. Trials reported anxiety and psychosis-like effects that settled within 20 to 30 minutes in one study. NIDA lists fear, anxiety and confusion ("bad trips") and, rarely, hallucinogen persisting perception disorder. Impaired perception can lead to dangerous behaviour and injuries. Authoritative guidance 6 16 19
- Clinical trials are not the same as non-medical use. Trial results come from pharmaceutical-grade DMT, screened participants and trained staff. Outside medicine, strength and purity are unknown, products can be contaminated (NIDA notes illicit drugs may contain fentanyl), and nobody monitors the person. Serious events in trials were few, but trial settings do not show the risks outside them. Authoritative guidance 16 12 19
- Pregnancy: no human data. A 2026 scoping review found no eligible human pregnancy outcome studies for DMT or ayahuasca and warns that no data is not proof of safety. A thematic review reports that animal studies using higher amounts of ayahuasca showed abortifacient and teratogenic effects; animal results may not carry to people. Scoping review 1 24
Side effects 6
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anxiety, fear, psychosis-like effects during the session Transient anxiety was among the commonest adverse events in the 2026 trial. | Reported in trials of intravenous DMT; no rate in the abstracts read | mild to severe Settled within about 20 to 30 minutes in one study | Controlled trial 6 9 |
| Raised blood pressure and heart rate | Systolic blood pressure rose by up to 25.7% in some intravenous trials | mild to moderate Resolved quickly | Systematic review 19 |
| Nausea, dizziness | Mentioned for oral and intranasal routes and in the 2026 trial | mild Short-lived | Systematic review 19 9 |
| Throat irritation, cough (inhaled) | Reported in the inhalation trial | mild Short-lived | Systematic review 19 |
| Infusion-site pain | Among the commonest adverse events in the 2026 trial | mild Short-lived | Controlled trial 9 |
| Serious adverse events in trials Events included worsening depression, suicidal behaviour, psychosis and convulsive episodes. No serious adverse events in the DMT depression trial or the DMT review. | About 4% of participants with pre-existing neuropsychiatric disorders and none in healthy participants across classic psychedelics (not DMT only) | serious Varies | Meta-analysis 12 |
Liver
No liver injury signal for DMT was found in the sources read. LiverTox was not read for DMT. Harmala alkaloids in ayahuasca showed possible toxicity at higher amounts in animal studies. 24
How often. Not found.
Monitoring. Not found.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 5
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antidepressants that raise serotonin (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) with ayahuasca prescription | Harmala alkaloids block MAO-A and can combine with serotonin-raising drugs to cause serotonin syndrome. | Warning since 1998; a systematic review found few human data. | Expert warning Low certainty 4 11 24 | Do not combine; ask a doctor or pharmacist. |
| Dextromethorphan and other serotonergic drugs with ayahuasca over-the-counter | MAO-A inhibition plus serotonergic drugs. | One 2026 case: severe serotonin syndrome, respiratory failure, intensive care, full recovery. | Case report Very low certainty 17 | Do not combine; seek emergency care for symptoms. |
| Other drugs with DMT mixed | Review of 3 DMT studies and 1 ayahuasca study found effects that were attenuated, potentiated or unchanged depending on the drug. | Little DMT-specific information. | Systematic review Low certainty 11 | Ask a doctor or pharmacist. |
| MAO-A inhibitors (any source) with DMT pharmacology | DMT is cleared by MAO-A; blocking it greatly increases DMT exposure and duration. In lab tests clearance was also reduced by inhibiting CYP2D6 and to a lesser extent CYP2C19. | Explains why oral DMT acts only with MAO inhibitors. | Pharmacology review Moderate certainty 8 10 | Do not combine without medical advice. |
| Alcohol and other drugs recreational | Not examined for DMT in the sources read. | Unknown. | None Not enough evidence 11 | Avoid combining. |
Who should check first 4
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Personal or family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or mania | A systematic review of case reports advises such people to avoid hallucinogens; trials also screen these people out. | Systematic review 7 |
| Taking antidepressants or other serotonin-raising medicines (especially with ayahuasca) | Serious interaction risk. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before any change to medicines. | Case report 4 17 |
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Blood pressure and heart rate rise; not studied in these groups in the sources read. | Systematic review 19 5 |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | No human data for DMT; animal signals with ayahuasca at high amounts. Breastfeeding data were not found. | Scoping review 1 24 |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. In controlled trials DMT was generally well tolerated and serious events were few. Outside trials less is known. A review says DMT appears to have limited neurotoxicity except for intense cardiovascular effects when given by vein in large amounts.
Psychosis and mental health. Rare psychotic episodes in case reports, often with risk factors. About 4% serious events in people with existing neuropsychiatric illness across classic psychedelics.
Dependence. No difference in drug-reinforcement measures between the two amounts tested in one small pilot; long-term dependence data were not found.
Driving and impairment. Perception and judgement are severely impaired during the experience. Not studied for driving in the sources read.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding. No human pregnancy data; animal harms with higher amounts of ayahuasca.
Overdose response. Not described in the sources read. See urgent signs.
Genotoxicity. Not reviewed.
Products outside medicine are not tested like medicines. NIDA warns that illicit drugs may contain fentanyl. No study of the content or purity of DMT products was found.
Illicit drug contamination. NIDA says illicit drugs may be contaminated with fentanyl, which is colourless and odourless. 16
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| US Drug Enforcement Administration (21 CFR 1308.11) (United States) | Dimethyltryptamine (DEA code 7435) and, separately, 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine are listed in Schedule I, among hallucinogenic substances. source | 2026-10-25 |
| UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971 (International) | DMT is in Schedule I of the 1971 Convention (list of substances in the schedules). source | 2026-10-25 |
| UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, Schedule 2 Part I (United Kingdom) | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine is listed among Class A drugs. source | 2026-10-25 |
When to get medical help
- Very high fever, stiff or twitching muscles, severe agitation, sweating, fast heartbeat or confusion after any psychedelic, especially after combining with antidepressants or cough medicines: these can be serotonin syndrome. Call emergency services.
- Chest pain, fainting, severe headache, trouble breathing, a seizure, or someone who cannot be woken: call emergency services. In the US, Poison Help is 1-800-222-1222; for a mental health crisis in the US call or text 988.
- Severe confusion, paranoia, or thoughts of self-harm that do not settle: get urgent medical help. Do not leave the person alone.
If someone may be poisoned or in a crisis, contact a clinician or emergency service straight away. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is DMT?
Is DMT the same as ayahuasca?
Is DMT an approved treatment for depression?
No approval was found in the sources we read. One small Phase IIa trial of intravenous pharmaceutical DMT found a larger fall in depression score than placebo at 2 weeks.
How strong is the evidence for depression?
What did the clinical trials find about side effects?
Can DMT cause psychosis or mania?
Case reports describe psychotic episodes after DMT or ayahuasca, often in people with a personal or family history of psychosis or mania, though not always. They appear rare.
Why is ayahuasca dangerous with antidepressants?
Is DMT safe in pregnancy?
Does the human body make DMT?
Is DMT legal?
Why is DMT so short-acting when given by vein?
Explore by health goal
Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-25
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-25
- How we research
- We searched PubMed and read the abstracts of the 18 papers cited, read regulator text for US, UN and UK status on 2026-10-25, and confirmed the chemical record in PubChem. Certainty ratings are the compilers' reading. Only abstracts were read.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown, and none will be added.
Sources 25
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Albert OM, Arthur A. Psychedelic exposure in pregnancy: a scoping review to inform perinatal drug safety and clinical counseling.. Therapeutic advances in drug safety. 2026. PMID 41930230. DOI 10.1177/20420986261436104. (abstract)
- America's Poison Centers / HRSA. Poison Help (US): 1-800-222-1222. poison.org. 2026. (summary)
- Barker SA. N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), an Endogenous Hallucinogen: Past, Present, and Future Research to Determine Its Role and Function.. Frontiers in neuroscience. 2018. PMID 30127713. DOI 10.3389/fnins.2018.00536. (abstract)
- Callaway JC, Grob CS. Ayahuasca preparations and serotonin reuptake inhibitors: a potential combination for severe adverse interactions.. Journal of psychoactive drugs. 1998. PMID 9924842. DOI 10.1080/02791072.1998.10399712. (abstract)
- Carbonaro TM, Gatch MB. Neuropharmacology of N,N-dimethyltryptamine.. Brain research bulletin. 2016. PMID 27126737. DOI 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2016.04.016. (abstract)
- D'Souza DC, Syed SA, Flynn LT, et al. Exploratory study of the dose-related safety, tolerability, and efficacy of dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in healthy volunteers and major depressive disorder.. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2022. PMID 35660802. DOI 10.1038/s41386-022-01344-y. (abstract)
- Dos Santos RG, Bouso JC, Hallak JEC. Ayahuasca, dimethyltryptamine, and psychosis: a systematic review of human studies.. Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology. 2017. PMID 28540034. DOI 10.1177/2045125316689030. (abstract)
- Egger K, Aicher HD, Cumming P, Scheidegger M. Neurobiological research on N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and its potentiation by monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition: from ayahuasca to synthetic combinations of DMT and MAO inhibitors.. Cellular and molecular life sciences. 2024. PMID 39254764. DOI 10.1007/s00018-024-05353-6. (abstract)
- Erritzoe D, Barba T, Benway T, et al. A short-acting psychedelic intervention for major depressive disorder: a phase IIa randomized placebo-controlled trial.. Nature medicine. 2026. PMID 41699126. DOI 10.1038/s41591-025-04154-z. (abstract)
- Good M, Joel Z, Benway T, et al. Pharmacokinetics of N,N-dimethyltryptamine in Humans.. European journal of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics. 2023. PMID 37086340. DOI 10.1007/s13318-023-00822-y. (abstract)
- Halman A, Kong G, Sarris J, Perkins D. Drug-drug interactions involving classic psychedelics: A systematic review.. Journal of psychopharmacology. 2024. PMID 37982394. DOI 10.1177/02698811231211219. (abstract)
- Hinkle JT, Graziosi M, Nayak SM, Yaden DB. Adverse Events in Studies of Classic Psychedelics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. JAMA psychiatry. 2024. PMID 39230883. DOI 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.2546. (abstract)
- International Narcotics Control Board (via ICEERS). INCB position on ayahuasca (as reported by ICEERS, citing the INCB 2010 report). ICEERS summary. 2010. (not-read-primary)
- László MJ, Vigh JP, Kocsis AE, et al. N,N-dimethyltryptamine mitigates experimental stroke by stabilizing the blood-brain barrier and reducing neuroinflammation.. Science advances. 2025. PMID 40802766. DOI 10.1126/sciadv.adx5958. (abstract)
- NCBI PubChem. PubChem: N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, CID 6089. PubChem REST API. 2026. (API)
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. NIDA: Hallucinogens (psychedelic and dissociative drugs). NIDA. 2026. (summary)
- Pack S, Ellett TR, Pham J, Ahmad Y. Severe Serotonin Syndrome With Acute Respiratory Failure Following Ayahuasca and Dextromethorphan Use: A Case Report.. Cureus. 2026. PMID 42713547. DOI 10.7759/cureus.114211. (abstract)
- Palhano-Fontes F, Barreto D, Onias H, et al. Rapid antidepressant effects of the psychedelic ayahuasca in treatment-resistant depression: a randomized placebo-controlled trial.. Psychological medicine. 2019. PMID 29903051. DOI 10.1017/S0033291718001356. (abstract)
- Swieczkowski D, Kwaśny A, Cubała WJ. Safety and tolerability of NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in healthy volunteers and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) patients: A systematic review of early-phase clinical trials.. Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry. 2025. PMID 40484114. DOI 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2025.111419. (abstract)
- Szabo A, Kovacs A, Riba J, et al. The Endogenous Hallucinogen and Trace Amine N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) Displays Potent Protective Effects against Hypoxia via Sigma-1 Receptor Activation in Human Primary iPSC-Derived Cortical Neurons and Microglia-Like Immune Cells.. Frontiers in neuroscience. 2016. PMID 27683542. DOI 10.3389/fnins.2016.00423. (abstract)
- Timmermann C, Roseman L, Haridas S, et al. Human brain effects of DMT assessed via EEG-fMRI.. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 2023. PMID 36940333. DOI 10.1073/pnas.2218949120. (abstract)
- US Drug Enforcement Administration / eCFR. eCFR: 21 CFR 1308.11 Schedule I (version dated 2026-10-21). eCFR. 2026. (full-text)
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