DMT Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, & Treatment
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DMT, known as dimethyltryptamine, is a potent psychedelic substance present in numerous animals and plants, including humans. Although a majority of users report deep and existential experiences while using DMT, it is crucial to recognize the possible risks and repercussions associated with the use of this compound.
One of the adverse effects related to DMT use is withdrawal, which may happen following consistent or extended use of the substance. Certain DMT users have experienced negative effects such as anxiety, confusion, and difficulty sleeping. In today’s blog, we will highlight the acute and chronic effects of DMT use, the dangers of abuse, and what happens during DMT withdrawal.
N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a psychedelic substance primarily found in plants and animals. It can also be produced synthetically [1]. For centuries, DMT has been derived from plants and utilized in religious rites and traditions, and nowadays, it is used in both spiritual ceremonies and recreational purposes.
DMT is classified as a Schedule I drug; possessing, manufacturing, and distributing it is prohibited in the United States. In addition, the US government does not recognize DMT as having any medical applications; it simply provides a quick pathway to deep emotional insights.
Although DMT can provide an extraordinary emotional and spiritual experience, some individuals are concerned about the possibility of DMT withdrawal. This potent compound is recognized for propelling users into intense, dreamlike states. This can include colorful illusions or encountering entities outside our typical existence.
Despite studies on DMT withdrawal and detox revealing that this substance has low addictive properties, one may develop a behavioral addiction and also face unpredictable DMT symptoms after using this substance.
Classic hallucinogens such as DMT are thought to be less habit-forming and don’t cause withdrawal effects, whereas dissociative substances may lead to dependence and build tolerance. While users of classic hallucinogens might not face intense, prolonged withdrawal symptoms, they may encounter an unpleasant phase known as a ‘comedown’ [3].
Comedown refers to a stage of drug withdrawal where the substances exit the body, leading the user to frequently experience sadness or exhaustion. In certain cases, a comedown from DMT can occur suddenly after a trip. Feelings of anxiety, misperception, dread, and agitation are some emotions linked to a comedown. Users might also experience difficulties with sleep or concentration for several days afterward.
DMT rapidly enters the bloodstream and reaches the brain shortly after a person uses it. When an individual consumes synthetic DMT, the drug’s effects could diminish in as little as 30 minutes. DMT is rapidly metabolized and subsequently eliminated via urine. After the effects of a high diminish, DMT is probably only present in the body for a short time. During this time, individuals usually do not experience any withdrawal symptoms.
Possible symptoms of DMT withdrawal include:
Users frequently consume DMT in pursuit of a psychedelic ‘trip’ akin to those caused by LSD and psilocybin. They often wonder how long does a DMT trip last? Numerous drug users prefer DMT instead of LSD due to the significantly shorter duration of the experience, which lasts much less than the several hours typical of LSD.
The psychoactive effects that users undergo when consuming DMT consist of visual hallucinations, a changed perception of time, depersonalization (the sensation of being outside one’s body), and auditory distortions.
So to answer the question, “how long is a DMT trip?” Based on the individual and the amount consumed, a typical DMT experience generally lasts about 30-45 minutes.
Although a DMT trip is psychologically enjoyable for individuals, some might encounter what is often termed a ‘bad trip’. This can include the following negative effects:
Although DMT withdrawal may not involve the profound physical symptoms associated with other substances, the psychological changes and desires for the deep experiences that DMT provides are important to consider. For a hallucinogen like DMT, withdrawal focuses on returning to a normal mental and perceptual condition, which requires time and contemplation.
Facing DMT withdrawal can be a difficult experience. The timeline differs, with your experiences influenced by how often and how much you use the drug. The first symptoms might appear soon after the final dose and can vary from mild to intense.
At present, there are no medications approved by the FDA for treating DMT addiction as the experience is usually quick and mild, and treatment regimens to handle patients seeking help for hallucinogen abuse are usually dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Those facing challenges with DMT addictions can pursue successful behavioral therapies to assist them in managing their drug consumption and achieving sobriety.
Unlike many other substances, DMT does not typically produce severe physical withdrawal symptoms. However, in the first 24-48 hours after stopping use, individuals may experience mild psychological discomfort such as irritability, restlessness, fatigue, or mood swings. Some people experience changes in their sleep patterns, including vivid dreams or insomnia. This phase is generally short-lived, but those with frequent or heavy DMT use may feel a sense of mental fog or dissociation as their brain adjusts to sobriety.
During the acute withdrawal phase, the psychological effects of DMT withdrawal become more noticeable. While DMT is not physically addictive, heavy users may experience heightened anxiety, depression, or emotional instability as the brain recalibrates. Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) may sometimes appear, which causes lingering visual disturbances such as flashes of light or distortion. Additionally, individuals may experience difficulty concentrating, mood swings, or fatigue as serotonin levels begin to stabilize. Cravings for DMT are rare, but some users may experience a strong desire to escape reality, leading to emotional distress.
By the two-week mark, most acute symptoms begin to subside, and the stabilization phase begins. Mood, sleep, and cognition improve, though some individuals may still experience lingering anxiety, emotional sensitivity, or mild dissociation. This period is crucial for engaging in therapy, mindfulness practices, and healthy lifestyle changes to support long-term recovery. Individuals with underlying mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may need additional support to manage symptoms that may have been masked by DMT use.
In some cases, post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) can persist for several months after stopping DMT. These symptoms are primarily psychological and may include periodic mood swings, occasional anxiety, or random episodes of dissociation.
HPPD symptoms, if present, may fluctuate, with some people experiencing intermittent visual disturbances or difficulty processing sensory information. Although PAWS symptoms are generally mild, engaging in therapy, meditation, and grounding techniques can help individuals manage lingering effects and maintain emotional stability.
While DMT withdrawal is not as intense as withdrawal from other substances, professional support, healthy coping strategies, and structured aftercare can help individuals navigate the psychological effects of discontinuing use.
The DMT detoxification process is usually quick [4]. However, for individuals using high doses of DMT, it might require more time. If an individual faces adverse side effects when attempting to quit using DMT, or if they believe they cannot quit using the substance independently, then medical detox and inpatient rehab facilities could be beneficial. These detox regimes assist individuals in clearing substances from their system by offering a secure, comfortable setting where patients can take medications to alleviate symptoms or obtain medical assistance if issues occur.
For instance, individuals experiencing issues with elevated blood pressure or heart arrhythmias after using DMT can be observed to ensure that no serious complications arise. Moreover, numerous behavioral therapy and counseling alternatives can assist individuals facing substance DMT misuse issues.
DMT is a potent hallucinogenic substance known for its intense, short-lived psychedelic experiences. Unlike many other psychoactive drugs, DMT is not considered physically addictive and typically does not lead to physiological dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
However, some users may experience psychological aftereffects following DMT use. These can include feelings of anxiety, confusion, or agitation, which may persist for days after the substance has left the system. Additionally, there have been reports of individuals experiencing persistent visual disturbances, a condition known as Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD).
While DMT does not cause physical withdrawal symptoms, its use can lead to psychological effects that may require attention. Individuals experiencing persistent symptoms are encouraged to seek professional support to ensure safety and well-being.
Hallucinogens represent a broad and varied group of psychoactive substances capable of inducing altered states of consciousness marked by significant changes in thought, mood, and perception, along with other symptoms.
In rare instances, fatal effects like respiratory failure and coma have been linked to DMT use. The likelihood of these events rises with elevated doses of DMT and polysubstance use—consuming multiple substances simultaneously. Additional studies are required to more accurately assess the risks of DMT.
Side effects of DMT use include:
While DMT is not known to cause physical effects when you stop taking it, it can have psychological effects such as restlessness, mental fog, and the desire to continue altering one’s mental state.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction or withdrawal, Gratitude Lodge is here to help. With world-class detox programs in Long Beach, Newport Beach, and San Diego in Southern California, we provide numerous opportunities to engage with nature and cultivate gratitude throughout your sober living journey.
We offer a secure, pet-friendly rehabilitation environment for both men and women seeking to enhance their lives and break their drug habit. Our professional and understanding team delivers personalized support in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Our founders have personally faced and recovered from addiction, which makes Gratitude Lodge the ideal location for achieving lasting addiction recovery.
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Sources
[1] https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/dmt.pdf
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/dmt-side-effects
[3] https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/dmt/
[4] https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-53363-y
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