What Is DMT & The Dangers Of Snorting It (Insufflation)?

N,n-dimethyltryptamine (known as DMT, Dimitri, or the spirit molecule) is a hallucinogen that creates psychedelic experiences known as “DMT trips.” 

The drug is a naturally occurring Schedule I controlled substance according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning it has a high potential for abuse.

Found in South American plants such as ayahuasca, DMT can be crushed into a crystalline powder and snorted. Snorting this psychoactive substance can impact your physical and mental health.

Effects Of Snorting DMT

DMT belongs to a group of drugs known as hallucinogens. Other hallucinogenic drugs include ketamine, psilocybin, ecstasy (MDMA), and lysergic acid diethylamide LSD.

Snorting DMT as the method of ingestion can result in a wide-range of side effects. In addition to the common side effects of DMT, snorting the drug can lead to:

• irritation of the nostrils
• nosebleeds
• bacterial infections
• chronic runny nose
• dizziness
• slurred speech
• frightening flashbacks
• damage to the nasal cartilage
• increase in heart rate
• visual hallucinations
• nausea
• serious mental health problems

Those with certain health conditions such as high blood pressure should avoid DMT use, as this is a side effect which may result in serious health issues.

DMT Trip

One of the primary side effects of DMT includes a potential “DMT trip” or psychedelic experience. This “trip” can be good or bad depending on the individual experience.

This hallucinogenic drug, when snorted, may enhance the effects of a DMT trip, leading to severe mental anguish and vivid hallucinations. Insufflating the drug enhances the effects of DMT and may increase the dangers associated with this form of drug use.

Dangers Of Snorting DMT

Snorting DMT may create serious health dangers. In addition to increased side effects, a person may experience a drastic change in perception, resulting in hallucinations and potential psychosis. 

Snorting DMT can cause intense “DMT trips” which may lead to accidents such as motor vehicle crashes, falls, or drownings.

Serotonin Syndrome

A dangerous and life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome can take place if certain antidepressants are combined with DMT. For instance, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) antidepressants should be avoided.

Snorting DMT can increase the effects of the drug, creating a greater risk of serotonin syndrome, especially when combined with MAOIs. Some of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome may consist of:

• tremors

• confusion
• disorientation
• muscle spasms
• breathing problems
• irritability
• renal failure
• anxiety
• tremors

DMT Overdose

Those who snort DMT or take the drug in large quantities may be more at risk of developing a DMT overdose. Some of the symptoms of a DMT overdose can include:

• fluctuations in heart rate
• blood pressure changes
• respiratory arrest
• seizures
• coma

If you suspect a DMT overdose has occurred, contact 911 immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

If you or a loved one deal with hallucinogenic drug abuse and help, contact us today for information on our treatment options.