How Long Does DMT Last?

DMT is a powerful hallucinogen that produces an intense and often spiritual experience. Classed as a psychedelic, interest in it has increased over the past few years, as well as its short-term and long-term effects, due to documentaries and psychedelic trends.

In this blog, we’ll explore the topic in more detail, so whether you’re exploring DMT yourself, concerned about a loved one’s use or researching hallucinogens as part of addiction treatment, keep reading to find out more.

What is DMT?

DMT, short for N-Dimethyltryptamine, is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound that is found in certain animals and plants. Chemically, it’s similar to serotonin and can produce powerful changes in mood, perception and consciousness. It is sometimes referred to as the spirit molecule due to the profound and out-of-this-world experiences that users often report. However, while DMT might be short-acting, the psychological effects of this substance can often be much more long-lasting.

In the UK, DMT is a Class A drug. This means it is illegal to possess, supply and produce. Despite this, its use has increased in recent years, sparking greater curiosity regarding the substance, its uses and effects.

How Long Do The Effects of DMT Last?

The duration of a DMT trip depends on how the drug is consumed. There are two common methods: smoking or vaporising it, and ingesting it orally. When smoked or vaporised, DMT takes up to 1 minute to take effect. Effects typically peak between 2-5 minutes and can last up to 30 minutes.

During this method, DMT enters the bloodstream quickly via the lungs and causes an almost immediate onset of effects. They also fade quickly, which makes it one of the shortest-acting hallucinogens.

Taken orally as ayahuasca – a traditional Amazonian drink – DMT can take up to 60 minutes to take effect and typically peaks after around 1-2 hours. These effects can last up to 6 hours. In this method, DMT is combined with MAOIs – monoamine oxidase inhibitors – which allow the DMT to remain active and therefore produce a slower, longer and often more introspective experience.

What Does a DMT Experience Feel Like?

While a DMT experience will feel different for different users, it typically creates an intense physical and psychological effect. Users have described this as life-changing or mystical. Some of the most common feelings include:

• Fast and vivid hallucinations
• Out-of-body sensations
• Ego dissolution
• Strange encounters with symbolic imagery
• Intense emotions ranging from euphoria to terror
• Distorted time perception

Some users report feeling confused, frightened and emotionally uncomfortable, especially when psychedelics such as DMT have been taken in an unsafe setting. When users do experience a bad trip, the long-term emotional effects can be life-altering.

Factors That Influence How Long DMT Lasts

Similar to other drugs, there are several factors that alter the duration and intensity of a DMT experience. For example, smoking DMT provides a faster trip that wears off more quickly compared to taking it orally. Higher doses of the drug can also lead to more intense effects.

Individuals process DMT differently, too, depending on body weight, liver enzymes, general health and previous psychedelic use. Research shows that your mental state, as well as your physical and social environment, can also impact how long the experience feels and how it is perceived mentally and physically.

How Long Does DMT Stay in the Body?

Although the effects of DMT wear off quickly, the compound remains in the body for a short period afterwards. In most cases, it is completely cleared from the body within a few hours, but the DMT duration depends on whether it is smoked or ayahuasca. This is because DMT is broken down by MAO (monoamine oxidase enzymes). It is usually not detected in standard drug tests but there are specialist tests that can detect DMT.

Research also shows that the psychological effects of DMT can last for days and even weeks, depending on the intensity of the experience and the individual’s mental and physical health.

Is DMT Addictive or Dangerous?

DMT is not considered to be an addictive drug, but that does not mean it doesn’t come with its own risks. Some people who frequently use DMT can develop an unhealthy tolerance and pattern of behaviours, using the drug to escape reality or seek out repeated spiritual highs. This can have a profound effect on mental health, leading to complications, and even avoidance behaviours – especially if underlying issues aren’t addressed.

Research also shows that DMT can trigger panic attacks, anxiety and psychotic episodes in certain individuals. Those with a personal or family history of mental health issues are more at risk of adverse effects, and those who have suffered bad trips through drug use can be affected long-term by emotional distress.

When to Seek Help for DMT Misuse

There are a few important signs to watch out for when it comes to DMT use:

• Frequently seeking DMT out and needing to use it to feel okay
• Using it to escape reality or to avoid emotional pain
• Feeling distressed during or after use
• Combining DMT with other substances – especially alcohol, stimulants and antidepressants

Even though DMT might not be physically addictive, and is naturally occurring, it is known for its powerful psychological effects, which can be hugely detrimental to physical and mental health. Therefore, if you are concerned about your own DMT use or a loved one’s, or you’re noticing changes in mood, behaviour and functioning, it could be time to reach out for support.

Reach Out for Support Today

Worried about DMT use for yourself or someone you care about? We offer confidential and compassionate support for all types of substance use, including psychedelics like DMT.

Our experienced team can help you understand the risks and DMT effects, provide professional therapy and mental health support, offer safe detox options if needed and support your journey towards long-term recovery.

Ultimately, your well-being matters, and you don’t have to navigate this path alone. Get help now by contacting our friendly and professional team.