Everything about 5-MeO-DMT: experiences, effects and risks

What is 5-MeO-DMT?

5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) belongs to the group of tryptamines and was first synthesised in 1936. This psychedelic compound occurs naturally in some plants and in small amounts in the human body. However, the best-known natural source is the skin of the Colorado River toad (Incilius alvarius), which lives in the deserts of the United States. In the 1960s, it was only discovered that it also occurred in the skin of toads. In the 1980s, researchers began collecting and studying toad venom, after which the substance became known in wider spiritual communities. Today, 5-MeO-DMT is mostly produced synthetically and belongs to the so-called research chemicals.

Although the drug is not intended for recreational use, it is used in certain spiritual contexts for deep introspection, self-examination and inducing mystical experiences. The legal status of this substance varies by country, but in the Netherlands, buying 5-MeO-DMT is still legal. The substance is covered by the Commodities Act and is therefore not banned.

Effects of 5-MeO-DMT

The effects of 5-MeO-DMT are caused by strong binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, specifically:

• 5-HT1A: involved in mood regulation and feelings of calmness
• 5-HT2A: responsible for most psychedelic effects

It also affects brain activity in cortical areas, leading to intense changes in consciousness. It is broken down in the body mainly by MAO-A and CYP2D6, forming the active metabolite bufotenine. Possibly, 5-MeO-DMT also inhibits the reuptake of monoamines, enhancing its effects.

5-MeO-DMT experience

The experience of 5-MeO-DMT can be both physically and mentally intense. Many users report:

Physical effects:

• A sudden intoxication
• Muscle twitching
• Increased desire to sing, laugh or talk
• Changed breathing
• Heat or tingling in the body

Mental and spiritual effects:

• Loss of ego (ego death)
• Feeling of oneness with everything
• Sense of time disappears
• Intense euphoria or ecstasy
• Spiritual insights
• Visions or altered perception

The experience is often described as life-changing and can feel deeply spiritual.

Risks and consequences

Because of its intensity, 5-MeO-DMT is not without risk. Some known side effects include:

• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Drooling, nausea or vomiting
• Feeling alienated or gloomy
• Persistent confusion or derealisation in vulnerable individuals

In vulnerable individuals, it can lead to long-term confusion, derealisation or worsening of psychological symptoms. Spiritual or emotional feelings may also be difficult to process after the trip. Combination with other drugs, such as antidepressants or alcohol, is dangerous and should be avoided.

Differences between DMT, 5-MeO-DMT and ayahuasca

Although DMT, 5-MeO-DMT and ayahuasca all belong to the psychedelic family, they differ greatly in composition, effects and experience. DMT is known for its intense and colourful visual effects. The experience is often chaotic, fast and overwhelming, with geometric patterns and otherworldly worlds. With 5-MeO-DMT, on the other hand, the effects are less visual and more internally focused. This substance often evokes a deep sense of unity and spiritual enlightenment, with complete dissolution of the ego. Because of this, the drug is also known as The God Molecule.

Ayahuasca is a traditional brew from the Amazon region and contains DMT combined with MAO inhibitors, making it effective via oral ingestion. The experience lasts on average four to six hours and proceeds in phases that can be both visually and emotionally intense. Unlike the short and extremely powerful effects of 5-MeO-DMT, ayahuasca is a long-lasting journey that is often experienced as healing or insightful. 5-MeO-DMT is also not to be confused with other variants such as 5-Meo-MIPT, which have very different effects.

Dosage and use

5 MeO DMT can be administered in different ways, each with its own intensity:

• Nasal: snorting the powder is often milder, with a slower build-up. Starting dose: 3-5 mg.
• Vapourising or vaping: very potent and fast-acting. Starting dose: 1-2 mg.
• Oral intake: strongly discouraged due to its high potency. This can lead to overdose, seizures or hypertension.

Due to its potent effects, 5 MeO DMT is only used in safe, controlled environments, often accompanied by an experienced guide or trip sitter.