Peer-reviewed articleOpen access

A single inhalation of vapor from dried toad secretion containing 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) in a naturalistic setting is related to sustained enhancement of satisfaction with life, mindfulness-related capacities, and a decrement of psychopathological symptoms.

Uthaug MV iD, Lancelotta R iD, van Oorsouw K, Kuypers KPC, Mason N iD, Rak J iD, Šuláková A iD, Jurok R iD, Maryška M iD, Kuchař M, Páleníček T iD, Riba J, Ramaekers JG

PsychopharmacologyApr 13, 2019License: open accessNetherlands, United States, Czech Republic117 citationsDOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05236-w

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (hereinafter referred to as 5-MeO-DMT) is a psychedelic substance found in the secretion from the parotoid glands of the Bufo alvarius toad. Inhalation of vapor from toad secretion containing 5-MeO-DMT has become popular in naturalistic settings as a treatment of mental health problems or as a means for spiritual exploration. However, knowledge of the effects of 5-MeO-DMT in humans is limited.<h4>Aims</h4>The first objective of this study was to assess sub-acute and long-term effects of inhaling vapor from dried toad secretion containing 5-MeO-DMT on affect and cognition. The second objective was to assess whether any changes were associated with the psychedelic experience.<h4>Methods</h4>Assessments at baseline, within 24 h and 4 weeks following intake, were made in 42 individuals who inhaled vapor from dried toad secretion at several European locations.<h4>Results</h4>Relative to baseline, ratings of satisfaction with life and convergent thinking significantly increased right after intake and were maintained at follow-up 4 weeks later. Ratings of mindfulness also increased over time and reached statistical significance at 4 weeks. Ratings of depression, anxiety, and stress decreased after the session, and reached significance at 4 weeks. Participants that experienced high levels of ego dissolution or oceanic boundlessness during the session displayed higher ratings of satisfaction with life and lower ratings of depression and stress.<h4>Conclusion</h4>A single inhalation of vapor from dried toad secretion containing 5-MeO-DMT produces sub-acute and long-term changes in affect and cognition in volunteers. These results warrant exploratory research into therapeutic applications of 5-MeO-DMT.

Topics & conditions

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DMT5-MeO-DMTDepressionAnxiety

Keywords

CognitionAffectField StudySatisfaction With LifeAltered States Of ConsciousnessPsychedelicBufo Alvarius

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