Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) response to inhaled N, N-dimethyltryptamine (N, N-DMT): A case report
Journal of Psychedelic Studies June 23, 2022 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1556/2054.2022.00178
Summary
Inhaled N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (N, N-DMT) was associated with acute increases in heart rate and a significant rise in average daily heart rate variability (HRV) one day after use in a healthy 31-year-old male. Despite similar doses, the duration of experiences decreased across three sessions. These findings suggest that inhaled N, N-DMT may influence cardiac autonomic regulation, highlighting the need for further investigation into psychedelics' effects on HRV and related health outcomes.
Study at a glance
| Design | case study |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | one healthy 31-year-old male |
| Key finding | Inhaled N, N-DMT led to acute increases in heart rate and a pronounced elevation in average daily HRV one day after administration. |
Abstract
Abstract Background N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (N, N-DMT) is a naturally occurring tryptamine-based alkaloid and classic psychedelic. The potent psychoactive properties of N, N-DMT are mediated by serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptor agonism. There are limited investigations into the physiologic effects of inhaled N, N-DMT, despite this being one of the most common routes of administration. Heart rate variability (HRV) is an emergent non-invasive marker of cardiac autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulation and reductions in HRV have been negatively associated with multiple health outcomes. Methods A case is described with a brief review of supportive findings. Results Heart rate (HR) and HRV responses following three naturalistic inhaled N, N-DMT experiences were documented in a healthy 31-year-old male. Acute transient elevations in HR immediately following N, N-DMT administration and a pronounced elevation in the average daily HRV one-day following the experiences were observed. The duration of experience shortened across the three experiences despite similar N, N-DMT doses. Conclusion These findings offer preliminary evidence into the effect of inhaled N, N-DMT on HR and HRV. Given the emergent understanding of reductions in HRV as a hazardous marker of stress, psychiatric conditions, and mental health outcomes, further research into the effects of psychedelics on HRV is warranted.