Rewiring Maladaptive Reward Learning in Heavy Drinkers Using DMT

We are conducting a brain imaging study to look at how the psychedelic drug, N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) enhances neuroplasticity compared to other plasticity-enhancing drugs. This will involve comparing the activity in your brain using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while watching movies from before to after the intervention. We will also use electroencephalography (EEG) to look at your brain activity while under the effects of either DMT, Lisuride, D-Cycloserine or placebo.

For this study; we are specifically looking for healthy volunteers (aged 21 to 65 years) that drink alcohol regularly, want to cut down, and do not have a formal diagnosis of alcohol use disorder.

What Does Participation Involve?

  • Attend three in-person sessions at UCL (nearest station: Euston) within a 3 week period

  • Receive an intravenous dose of DMT, Lisuride, D-Cycloserine or placebo

  • Have two separate MRI scans (before and after) whilst watching a movie

  • Have one EEG scan (during an i.v dose of DMT, Lisuride, D-Cycloserine or placebo)  

  • Complete tasks and questionnaires

  • Complete a pre and post infusion interview  

  • Complete a short preparation course during the week before the dosing session, involving short meditation practice and journalling      

  • Download an app so you can log your thoughts & feelings during the study

  • Commit to attending follow-up sessions at 1-month, 3-months, 6-months and 9-months after your dosing session

Compensation and Benefits

Participants will be compensated for their time:

  • £250 for full completion of the study.

  • A personalised alcohol reduction plan

  • A free MRI picture of your brain

Confidentiality

All information collected will be pseudonymised, stored securely and treated with the utmost confidentiality. If your data is used in a scientific paper it will be anonymised.

Take the Next Step

If you're interested in contributing to this exciting research and meet the eligibility criteria, we invite you to complete our pre-screening survey. Our team will then contact you to discuss the next steps and answer any questions you may have.

If you have any questions about this study, please email us at unity-project@ucl.ac.uk or give us a call on 0203 987 2576.