Toxicokinetics and Toxicodynamics of Ayahuasca Alkaloids N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), Harmine, Harmaline and Tetrahydroharmine: Clinical and Forensic Impact.
Andreia Machado Brito-Da-Costa, Diana Dias-Da-Silva, Nelson G. M. Gomes, Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira, Áurea Madureira-Carvalho
Pharmaceuticals (Basel) October 23, 2020 DOI: 10.3390/ph13110334 via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractAyahuasca's psychoactive effects stem from the interplay of its alkaloids: N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine. DMT is rapidly absorbed and metabolized, but its oral activity requires monoamine oxidase inhibition by β-carbolines (harmine, harmaline) to prevent breakdown. Harmine and harmaline are quickly metabolized, while tetrahydroharmine has a longer half-life. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these compounds influence the duration and intensity of subjective effects, as well as potential toxicity. Understanding these processes is crucial for clinical management of adverse reactions and for forensic interpretation in cases of intoxication or death.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | DMT |
| Keywords | Alkaloids Unique substances Harmine Pharmacokinetics absorption |
| Citations | 111 |
| Key finding | The toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of ayahuasca alkaloids—including rapid metabolism of DMT and β-carbolines, and the role of monoamine oxidase inhibition—are essential for assessing clinical and forensic impacts. |
Abstract
Toxicokinetics and Toxicodynamics of Ayahuasca Alkaloids N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), Harmine, Harmaline and Tetrahydroharmine: Clinical and Forensic Impact.