Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
March 1, 2022
Anna O Ermakova, Fiona Dunbar, James Rucker et al.
83 citations
5-MeO-DMT is a short-acting psychedelic tryptamine found in nature and used historically for spiritual purposes. This review of existing literature covers its pharmacology, chemistry, metabolism, epidemiological studies, and reported effects. 5-MeO-DMT acts as a serotonergic agonist with highest affinity for 5-HT1A receptors. Animal model studies exist, but human clinical studies are lacking. Epidemiological data indicate it induces profound alterations in consciousness, including mystical experiences, with potential beneficial long-term effects on mental health and well-being. Its short duration, relative lack of visual effects, and higher rates of ego-dissolution make it a potentially useful addition to the psychedelic pharmacopoeia, warranting further clinical exploration with appropriate precautions.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
August 1, 2024
James Jonathan Rucker, Claire Roberts, Mathieu Seynaeve et al.
32 citations
A new intranasal formulation of 5-MeO-DMT, called BPL-003, was tested in 44 healthy people who had never used psychedelics. Doses up to 12 mg were well tolerated, with no serious side effects; common mild effects included nasal discomfort, nausea, headache, and vomiting. The drug was absorbed quickly, reaching peak levels in about 8–10 minutes, and cleared from the body in under 27 minutes. Higher doses produced stronger subjective drug intensity and mystical experiences, with 60% of participants reporting a 'complete mystical experience' at 10 and 12 mg. The rapid onset and short duration suggest potential for treating conditions like depression.
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain
September 20, 2024
James Rucker, Sadie Hambleton, Catherine Bird et al.
12 citations
A small open-label trial tested low doses of psilocybin (5, 7.5, and 10 mg) with psychological support in four patients with chronic short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNHA), a severe headache disorder. The study was terminated early due to recruitment difficulties; three participants completed all sessions. No significant adverse events occurred. Cognitive testing during the acute drug experience was not possible because participants reported high subjective dose intensity. Headache impact remained severe throughout the trial. Mean daily attack frequency decreased by more than 50% in two participants at final follow-up. Thematic analysis of clinical notes suggested psychological insights, including reconfigured relationships to headache pain, were key features of participants' experience. The clinical results provide no conclusive evidence for psilocybin in SUNHA.
Addiction
December 10, 2025
John Marsden, Michael Kelleher, Fiona Dunbar et al.
2 citations
A single 10 mg intranasal dose of the psychedelic drug BPL-003 (a formulation of 5-MeO-DMT) combined with cognitive behavioral therapy was safe and tolerable in people with moderate-to-severe alcohol use disorder. Over 12 weeks, the average percentage of abstinent days increased from 33.2% at baseline to 80.8%, and heavy drinking days dropped from 56.2% to 13.2%. Half of the 12 participants who completed the study were continuously abstinent, a quarter had meaningful reductions in drinking, and a quarter showed little change. Measures of craving, well-being, and quality of life also improved. The findings support larger controlled trials.
Biological Psychiatry
April 10, 2023
James Rucker, Mathieu Seynaeve, Allan H. Young et al.
1 citation
Nasal administration of tryptamine psychedelics significantly elevates mood in 70% of participants, based on a sample size of 150 individuals. This method enhances the effects on consciousness and psychological well-being, indicating strong potential in pharmacology and psychiatry. The study highlights how these substances influence neurotransmitter receptors, leading to altered states of awareness. With implications for forensic toxicology and drug analysis, findings suggest that psychedelics may offer new avenues for therapeutic applications in mental health.
Journal of Psychopharmacology
February 27, 2026
Claire T. Roberts, Mathieu Seynaeve, Anna O. Ermakova et al.
A single dose of BPL-003, a psychedelic drug given as a nasal spray, was safe in people with treatment-resistant depression. Depression scores dropped quickly and stayed lower for 12 weeks, suggesting the drug may help this hard-to-treat condition. Larger controlled trials are needed.