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5-MeO-DMT for post-traumatic stress disorder: a real-world longitudinal case study
Anya Ragnhildstveit1,2, Ryan Khan1, Paul Seli1,3
1Integrated Research Literacy Group, Draper, UT, United States.
Frontiers in Psychiatry
|December 11, 2023
Summary
This case study shows 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) may effectively treat chronic post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A single dose provided sustained symptom relief and reduced suicide risk in one patient.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Translational Science
- Pharmacology and Drug Discovery
Background:
- Psychedelic therapy is an emerging frontier in psychiatric treatment.
- 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), a potent serotonergic psychedelic, shows therapeutic potential.
- Limited research exists on 5-MeO-DMT for trauma-related disorders like PTSD.
Observation:
- A single 10-15 mg dose of vaporized 5-MeO-DMT (from bufotoxin) was administered to a patient with chronic refractory PTSD.
- The patient reported a profound mystical experience.
- Clinically significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, hopelessness, and suicide risk were observed.
Findings:
- Next-day therapeutic effects were noted following 5-MeO-DMT administration.
- Sustained improvements in PTSD symptoms and related psychopathology were maintained at 1, 3, 6, and 12-month follow-ups.
- 5-MeO-DMT was generally well-tolerated and safe, with no serious adverse events, though acute nausea and night terrors were reported.
Implications:
- This case study suggests 5-MeO-DMT may be a viable, rapid-acting therapeutic option for treatment-resistant PTSD.
- The mystical experience may be a key mechanism underlying 5-MeO-DMT's therapeutic effects.
- Further research is warranted to validate these preliminary findings in larger, controlled studies.
Keywords:
5-MeO-DMT5-methoxy-NN-dimethyltryptaminePTSDcase reportpost-traumatic stress disorderpsychedelic therapytraumaMore Related Videos
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