A comparison of reactivation experiences following vaporization and intramuscular injection (IM) of synthetic 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) in a naturalistic setting

Among 27 respondents who used the psychedelic drug 5-MeO-DMT, those who received it by intramuscular injection (IM) reported a lower rate of reactivations (21%) compared to those who vaporized it (69%). The IM group also required fewer redoses, experienced release of physical tension more consistently, and had a slower onset of acute effects (1–6 minutes) versus the vaporization group (1–50 seconds). These findings suggest that the route of administration influences the frequency of reactivations, dosing patterns, physical sensations, and the timing of the drug's effects.

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Abstract

Abstract Background Previous research suggests a therapeutic potential of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT). However, online anecdotal reports have described a phenomenon following cessation of the acute effects of 5-MeO-DMT use which has been termed reactivation (i.e., re-experiencing [“flashback”]). To date, no research has investigated whether different routes of administration may confer different reactivation rates, effects and experiences. Aims We aimed to assess whether intramuscular injection (IM) and vaporization of 5-MeO-DMT conferred different reactivation rates, changes in satisfaction with life as well as ratings of the experience with ego dissolution and the mystical. Methods Using internet-based advertisements, 27 respondents ( M age = 32. SE = 1.43; males = 18; North America = 19) completed an online-based survey. Results Of the 14 participants in the IM group, 3 (21%) reported reactivations; in contrast, of the 13 participants in the vaporization group, 9 (69%) reported reactivations. Redosing (more than 1 dose) occurred more frequently in the vaporization group ( N = 8) (1–6 times with 3–35 mg of 5-MeO-DMT), relative to the IM group ( N = 2) (1–5 times with 5–10 mg of 5-MeO-DMT). All participants in the IM group experienced release of physical tension, compared to 8 participants in the vaporization group. Participants in the IM group reported longer time of onset of acute effects (between 1 and 3 [ N = 6] and 4–6 min [ N = 6]), relative to the vaporization group where the majority ( N = 11) reported a rapid onset of 1–50 s. Conclusion Findings suggest that compared to vaporization, the IM route of administering 5-MeO-DMT is associated with lower and less doses, lower frequencies of reporting reactivation, a higher frequency of physical tension release, and a slower onset of acute effects.