CONFIRMED SPEAKERS

Malin Vedøy Uthaug

Maastricht University

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

Abstract

While previous research has suggested a prospective therapeutic potential of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), anecdotal reports online have described a poorly understood phenomenon following use in naturalistic settings which has been termed reactivation, and refers to the re-experiencing (“flashback”) of some of the effects induced by 5-MeO-DMT intake after the drug’s acute effects have worn off. To date, no research has investigated whether different routes of administration may confer different reactivation rates, effects and experiences.


We aimed to assess whether the occurrence of the phenomenon of reactivation was associated with a specific route of drug administration (i.e. vaporization or intramuscular injection). Secondly, we examined other similarities and/or differences between the two routes of administration with regard to (re)dosing, time of onset, release of physical tension, , as well as satisfaction with life and ratings of the psychedelic experience.


Using internet-based advertisements, 27 respondents completed an online-based survey.


Findings suggest that the intramuscular route of 5-MeO-DMT may produce lower frequency of reactivations, as well as (re)dosing, and evoke higher frequency of somatic release, and has a longer onset of acute effects compared to vaporization. This could be favorable in a clinical trial.

Biography

Malin Vedøy Uthaug has a background in psychology and is currently a PhD candidate at the department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology (FPN) at Maastricht University. Her doctoral research, supervised by Dr. Jan Ramaekers and Dr. Jordi Riba, centres around the investigation of the effects of Ayahuasca ingested in a naturalistic setting on affect and cognition, in addition to extensive work on the effects of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) in humans. Outside of her thesis work, Malin is also conducting research on mescaline and Holotropic Breathwork, is interested in trauma resolution and Non-Ordinary State Psychotherapy (NOSP), and finally, she is also one of the co-founders of the Norwegian Association for Psychedelic Studies.