What is DMT Addiction?
DMT is an abbreviation for a drug called N, N-Dimethyltryptamine, a chemical that develops in the brain. It also grows in plants indigenous to Central and South America. As a drug, DMT typically takes the form of white powder which may be smoked with a pipe or brewed into hallucinogenic drinks like Ayahuasca and yage. DMT can be injected into the drug. Sometimes called ‘fantasia,’ it is a less-commonly used drug but addiction can happen over a period of time.
Effects and Risks of DMT
DMT stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter which causes feelings of happiness. DMT causes people who use it to experience:
- Euphoria
- Hallucinations
- New perceptions of reality which people characterize as life-changing
A trip on DMT can begin instantly and lasts less than an hour when people smoke the drug. Some people report mild lingering effects that last several days. DMT often causes adverse side effects like increased heart rate and hypertension, along with nausea and dizziness. Despite the fact that many people who use it to promote the benefits of use, it is not safe. It is has serious consequences on a person’s health and mental well-being. Since DMT causes the brain to release serotonin, high doses of the drug may send the body into a serotonin overdose which my provoke seizures, obstruct breathing, and induce a coma.
Addiction Challenges
While some people have had experiences with the drug they think are positive, many others have suffered DMT trips which are confusing and terrifying. The psychological effects can be so terrifying it may cause serious problems for them. Experts debate whether DMT is chemically addictive. Nevertheless, limited research available on DMT suggests people who use the drug can develop cravings which may culminate in psychological dependency.
DMT and the Law
DMT has been a Schedule 1 controlled substance since 1971. The United States government considers DMT to have no legitimate medical purpose and imposes heavy fines and decades in prison as punishment for possession, manufacture, and sale of DMT. DMT is part of the rituals and traditions of several indigenous South American religions. DMT remains illegal for many people other than those who use it for religious purposes. Anyone who uses DMT is taking their life and health into their own hands, whether addiction occurs or not. It may be something used to balance co-occurring mental health issues which can lead to dependence over time. It is best to seek help for use of illegal substances and find support in recovery programs.
The Palmetto Center is based on a Therapeutic Community model. We help people learn how to live free of addiction. Our community support provides structure while trained counselors offer life skills training and therapeutic techniques to help you move past addiction. Our program provides special focus for professionals including chiropractors, nurses, doctors, lawyers, and more who need help with addiction recovery. Call us to find out more: 866-848-3001.