DMT for Alcohol Misuse (UCL)

The University College London (UCL) is conducting a pioneering clinical trial to assess the potential of Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in reducing alcohol consumption among heavy drinkers. This study, known as the Understanding Neuroplasticity Induced by TrYptamines (UNITy) project, represents the largest psychedelic brain imaging study of its kind to date and is funded by Wellcome Leap .MedPath+3The Guardian+3UNITy+3MedPath+1

Study Design

The trial involves 120 participants aged 21 to 65 who consume alcohol regularly and are motivated to reduce their intake. Participants undergo three in-person visits over three weeks at UCL’s facilities near Euston. During these visits, they receive an intravenous dose of DMT, a placebo, or two non-hallucinogenic drugs—Lisuride and D-Cycloserine—known to influence brain plasticity. Brain activity is monitored using electroencephalography (EEG) during the dosing session and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while participants watch emotionally engaging films .MedPath+3UNITy+3University College London+3University College London+1

Mechanism of Action

DMT is a potent psychedelic compound that acts on serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. The hypothesis is that DMT can enhance neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural connections—thereby allowing individuals to “rewire” maladaptive reward associations linked to alcohol consumption. This process is thought to facilitate the breaking of entrenched drinking habits and promote healthier behaviors .University College London+1University College London

Significance and Implications

Traditional treatments for alcohol use disorder often yield limited success, with high relapse rates. The UNITy study aims to explore whether DMT can offer a novel and effective approach to addiction therapy. If successful, the findings could pave the way for DMT to become a clinically approved treatment for alcohol misuse in the UK, potentially influencing drug policy and therapeutic practices .UNITy+2UNITy+2University College London

Participation Details

Individuals interested in participating in the study must meet specific criteria, including:

• Aged 21–65 years
• Regular alcohol consumption (≥3 times per week)
• Weekly alcohol intake exceeding 20 UK units for women or 35 UK units for men
• Motivation to reduce alcohol consumptionMedPath+2UNITy+2University College London

Participants will receive compensation at a rate of £10 per hour, approximately £250 for full completion of the study, along with a personalized alcohol reduction plan and a free MRI image of their brain .UNITy

For more information or to express interest in the study, individuals can visit the UNITy project webpage or contact the research team at unity-project@ucl.ac.uk.UNITy+2UNITy+2