Long-lasting analgesic effect of the psychedelic drug changa: A case report

A case report describes a long-lasting analgesic effect after use of changa, a psychedelic drug containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine and β-carboline-rich seeds of Peganum harmala. The authors suggest both pharmacological and non-pharmacological factors may be involved, but due to changa's complex actions on multiple neurotransmitter systems, further research is needed to establish specific mechanisms. This provides preliminary evidence of an analgesic effect from changa.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Pain is the most prevalent symptom of a health condition, and it is inappropriately treated in many cases. Here, we present a case report in which we observe a long-lasting analgesic effect produced by changa, a psychedelic drug that contains the psychoactive N,N-dimethyltryptamine and ground seeds of Peganum harmala, which are rich in β-carbolines. We describe the case and offer a brief review of supportive findings. A long-lasting analgesic effect after the use of changa was reported. Possible analgesic mechanisms are discussed. We suggest that both pharmacological and non-pharmacological factors could be involved. These findings offer preliminary evidence of the analgesic effect of changa, but due to its complex pharmacological actions, involving many neurotransmitter systems, further research is needed in order to establish the specific mechanisms at work.