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 DOI: 10.1556/2054.2022.00178
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractInhaled N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) temporarily raised heart rate immediately after use in a healthy 31-year-old man, and his average daily heart rate variability (HRV) was markedly higher the day after each of three naturalistic experiences. The duration of the experience shortened across the three sessions even though the DMT dose remained similar. Because low HRV is linked to stress, psychiatric conditions, and poor mental health, these preliminary findings suggest that psychedelics may influence cardiac autonomic regulation and warrant further study.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Case study with review of supportive findings Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | Healthy 31-year-old male |
| Intervention | N |
| Citations | 5 |
| Key finding | Inhaled N,N-DMT produced acute transient heart rate elevations and a pronounced increase in average daily heart rate variability the day after each experience. |
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.