In a new development, Canadian company Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc. has revealed that its subsidiary, Algernon NeuroScience, is progressing with its studies into the use of DMT (dimethyltryptamine) for the treatment of stroke.
They are the first in the world to delve into the potential of DMT in promoting neuroplasticity for brain injury recovery.
The company’s latest move follows the completion of a feasibility study, and they’ve now cemented their plans for a 40-patient Phase 2 DMT Stroke study.
This trial will focus on patients who have recently suffered from an acute ischaemic stroke, administering a sub-psychedelic dose of DMT intravenously during their hospitalisation.
Dr. Rick Strassman, a leading figure in DMT research and author of “DMT: The Spirit Molecule”, expressed optimism about the project. “Algernon’s Phase 1 study results were promising, where a prolonged DMT infusion achieved the intended pharmacokinetics without inducing significant psychedelic effects,” he noted.
Dr. Strassman will be keenly observing the Phase 2 proceedings.
The initiative to explore DMT for stroke recovery was inspired by a 2020 rat occlusion stroke study.
It demonstrated a significant reduction in infarct volume and an almost complete motor function recovery within 30 days after a singular DMT treatment.
The compound has previously shown potential in increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a key agent in brain healing post-injury.
Furthermore, DMT’s ability to activate neural connection pathways and boost neurons’ capacity to form new connections highlights its potential therapeutic power.
Remarkably, DMT could also protect tissues at risk of death, which Algernon NeuroScience hopes to harness by administering the drug swiftly after a stroke, minimising potential damage.
Previous studies involving DMT have looked into the potential for it to be a possible treatment for people suffering from depression.
As the psychedelic world watches, the outcomes of this study could pioneer new treatments for stroke patients globally.
