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A critical review of reports of endogenous psychedelic N, N‐dimethyltryptamines in humans: 1955–2010
Author(s) -
Barker Steven A.,
McIlhenny Ethan H.,
Strassman Rick
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
drug testing and analysis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.065
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1942-7611
pISSN - 1942-7603
DOI - 10.1002/dta.422
Subject(s) - perspective (graphical) , strengths and weaknesses , psychology , computer science , social psychology , artificial intelligence
Three indole alkaloids that possess differing degrees of psychotropic/psychedelic activity have been reported as endogenous substances in humans; N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 5‐hydroxy‐DMT (bufotenine, HDMT), and 5‐methoxy‐DMT (MDMT). We have undertaken a critical review of 69 published studies reporting the detection or detection and quantitation of these compounds in human body fluids. In reviewing this literature, we address the methods applied and the criteria used in the determination of the presence of DMT, MDMT, and HDMT. The review provides a historical perspective of the research conducted from 1955 to 2010, summarizing the findings for the individual compounds in blood, urine, and/or cerebrospinal fluid. A critique of the data is offered that addresses the strengths and weaknesses of the methods and approaches to date. The review also discusses the shortcomings of the existing data in light of more recent findings and how these may be overcome. Suggestions for the future directions of endogenous psychedelics research are offered. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.