A validated method using a modified QuEChERS extraction and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry can detect 51 psychoactive substances and screen for 22 more in oral fluid from electronic dance music party attendees. Storage at -20°C without buffer preserved substances for up to 72 hours with less than 15% loss. Analysis of 62 real samples found MDMA and MDA in 27 samples (concentrations up to 829 ng/mL), cocaine and metabolites in 8 samples, and methamphetamine in 8 samples. Eutylone was detected in two cases where attendees reported taking 'ecstasy.' Comparison with self-reports showed that illicit drug use is often underreported and attendees are frequently unaware of what they consume.
Ayahuasca, an Amazonian beverage traditionally used as medicine, and its component DMT reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, TNF-α, IL-12p70) in rats with LPS-induced depression, suggesting potential for modulating inflammation in depression. The highest ayahuasca dose increased locomotion and center entries in open field tests. Fluoxetine, ayahuasca, and DMT increased swimming time, while fluoxetine and the lowest ayahuasca dose increased climbing time. The LPS model did not consistently produce depressive behaviors, but the results indicate ayahuasca and DMT may reduce inflammation-related aspects of depression.