I am Dominic Milton Trott, author of The Drug Users Bible. I self-administered over 150 drugs over a 10 year period to document how to use them more safely. AMA!

First, thank you! I am still with the planet thankfully after much experimentation and close calls. My favorite disaasociatives are very much double edged.

Is there any drug you consider 100% unusable in moderation?

I haven’t found one yet, however I also realize that at least 2 of these situations were 100% luck I survived.

Follow up, have you prepared yourself for an inevitable blame people will place on you (likely unwarranted) that your advice or disclaimers are not considered? Philosophically how do you mentally project this?

Cheers to your work.

Those are really difficult questions, phrased as they are, but I'll do my best.

Unusable in moderation? That depends entirely upon what you mean by unusable. All drugs can be taken in low enough doses to experience a psychoactive effect, without dying, so in that respect the answer is no. However....

For some drugs, for example deliriants (e.g. datura, nutmeg), I would question whether the benefit, or fun, or whatever the objective, is ever worth the risk or potential harm. Is it ever enjoyable to be delirious? It is an extremely high risk venture, and for what? A dysphoric hell? The subsequent physical discomfort? If you do reach the goal and survive, the goal isn't likely to be something you actually want to experience at all. This is surely a case of potential users being made aware of the nature of the drug and its payload by a credible source.

I could answer the "inevitable blame people will place on you" part of your question in many ways, but I think it is important to understand what is in the book and balance risk.

I provide information, I don't tell people to take drugs, nor do I glorify or promote them.

I thought long and hard about this, for example with respect to my own kids. If they were going to take drugs (and no-one can say with certainty that their kids won't) would I prefer them to navigate the drug world without the information in the book, or with it? On every count the answer was with it.

Equally, when I took the 157 drugs myself I had that same choice: with or without the information. However, there was no chance that I was going to embark without thorough research and investigation, collating the data I documented. I didn't want to die on this project. Damn right I wanted to know what the general doses where, onset times, etc. I wanted to know what to expect, how long it would last, would my judgement be flawed under the influence. It goes on of course, but hopefully you get my point: the choice is between ignorance and potentially life-saving knowledge.

Will people blame me if someone dies regardless? Probably, but that doesn't make the blame justified: it possibly makes me an easier target than other more realistic issues.

I do feel strongly about this because I look around and see pain, misery and death, and in far too many cases this stems from a lack of awareness, or knowledge, or data.

Drugs don't kill per se: the erroneous use of drugs kills. The void in understanding and information kills. All I have sought to do is to fill some of that void, as well as I could.

Thank you for the thoughtful reply and taking me seriously. I cannot always formulate what’s is in my head properly on first pass.

Keep up the good work! Many appreciate it.

Thank you. Appreciated.

You should strike that last paragraph from your vocabulary. Drugs unquestionably do kill. Even when administered with knowledge and care.

Do you seriously want to be using the same language as the NRA?

I agree with the goal of harm reduction but you’ll give away any credibility you might have with foolish statements like that.

Re the NRA, no I don't, but you seem to be grossly decontextualising the comment.

Have any of the drugs you have taken given you a lasting negative effect? Like momory loss, bright light fright, concentration difficulties. If so, which ones?

This is a really good question and a really difficult one to answer.

For psychedelics I largely feel benefits, but for others, which one might assume could bestow negatives, it is really hard to be objective. For example, how can I measure my own memory loss? Also, how do I differentiate between the negative effects of drug use and the deterioration that comes with age?

I don't experience obvious issues, and I don't have any known medical conditions. Beyond this I feel fit and healthy, touch wood. I am probably considered to be a little weird in a social or cultural sense, but that may have been a prerequiste to embark upon this exercise in the first place. Do I look normal or generally okay in the video: Don't answer!

Are there any that you regularly experience intense cravings for? Which was the hardest to resist going “too far” with?

Where do you stand on legalization of different types of drugs? Are there any you did that you feel strongly should be illegal?

Methamphetamine invoked the most intense cravings and was the hardest to resist. Had I more than the 100mg available (and I made sure beforehand that I didn't), I would have continued to binge.

Regarding your second question, take a look around and see the misery, pain and death across the world, and then tell me that after 50 years of a brutal drug war that prohibition works. I think drugs should be legal, and regulated to ensure quality of supply, hand in hand with a real awareness and education program. People don't overdose or become addicted intentionally: they make mistakes, usually caused by ignorance and lack of education.

Ideally, my book shouldn't be necessary. It is trying to paper the cracks caused by a counterproductive and anti-human drug policy.

How do you view and manage your potential addiction risk? Have you had to fight this or was it no big deal? In which specific cases? Do you think the risks are generally well advertised or did you not see an issue? In the states, our general drug education generally states that addiction (though the rates vary by person) is inevitable and most of the time, instant. “You don’t just try heroin” for example. Or “after only two weeks on oxy Almost everyone has some level of withdrawals and addiction”. Any details you feel comfortable sharing on that topic to educate would be very appreciated.

From the start I was well aware of the general risks of addiction: I had been subjected to the same media and propaganda as everyone else. What was missing from my perspective was an accurate differentiation between different drugs. The official message, as you imply, is general, and amounts to all drugs are bad.

Obviously, some drugs already had social frighteners attached: heroin, meth, etc, so I was especially nervous about these. However, it was these which I used to formulate an approach used with every drug.

A lot of the information I document is drug specific, and reflects the nature of the tendencies of the individual drug. However, I also adopted a set of general rules, which are embedded in the first section (covering The 10 Commandments Of Safer Drug Use). These are basic, and for example recommend appropriate gaps between use of drugs from the same class (assisted, for example, via marking on a calendar).

This entire area has been tarnished with misinformation in the public arena (e.g. 'use heroin once and you are addicted'). This is part of the problem, and it feeds ignorance. If you are going to lie once, and exaggerate, why would anyone believe you subsequently when you are telling the truth? This is why missives from government carry no credibility.

I tried to cut through this via honesty: it isn't the establishment telling you to be careful in this respect, with this particular drug, it is a guy who has used it on himself. That's crudely put, but hopefully you see where I am coming from.

What was your favorite? Are there any that you still do?

I don't use then regularly, no, but I will smoke weed in Amsterdam, and I will explore the local psychoactive when I am travelling for research. For example, I recently engaged bhang lassi whilst visiting Varanasi in India. But generally, do I sit at home and use drugs, or even go to the pub every week to use alcohol? No.

For my favourite, I'll copy paste from the Q&A at the back of the book: ===>

Q. Which drugs have you found to be the most interesting and the most beneficial to your personal development?

A. As a class, psychedelics, without question. For me, in the following order, as influenced by set and setting: Ayahuasca; 1p-LSD; San Pedro Cactus; Mushrooms; DMT. I feel that these were of enormous benefit, in much the same way as is already articulated by others. They bestowed a wider perspective, a greater understanding of the nature of consciousness, an awareness of oneness and connectedness, and so forth. I think they made me a kinder and better person.

Q. Which drugs have you enjoyed most recreationally?

A. In terms of basic physical stimulation and high, amphetamine. It comes at a high cost, however, which is why I only used it twice. My brain subsequently felt like a car which had had all the oil sucked out of it. I felt drained, for days.

Ephenidine is worth a reference too, because at a low dose it delivered both recreation and insight. Ketamine, cannabis, kava, and mephedrone are also worthy of honourable mentions, although it‘s difficult to be exclusive.

Q. What was the best drug for chemsex?

The experience differs significantly from class to class. I would suggest that certain stims (particularly amphetamines) produce the most prolonged intensive orgasmic pleasure. Cannabis helps you to get lost in the moment and flow with it. At lower doses some psychedelics can take you to a different place, and enhance sensitivity. Empathogens tend to take a similar path, with a more muted headspace, but hardly surprisingly attach to empathy.

I would offer some caution though. It is important to bear in mind that judgement is often impaired, and that events can develop quickly and potentially without due consideration. If applicable it is probably not the best idea for a single party to heavily engage whilst the other(s) doesn't. Equally, parameters should be agreed beforehand.

I would again re-enforce the commentary I make under the entry for methamphetamine, including with respect to relationships and addiction. Finally, the compound stress of sex and drugs on the body should also be contemplated.

I like that you call it “kava” instead of “awa” where did you try this Polynesian medicinal drug? Here in Hawaii it is very popular for relaxation.

I actually had that one at home whilst it was legal. I was surprised, to say the least, as I wasn't expecting much at all. I found a relaxing heady clear inebriation: perhaps like alcohol with most of the bad bits taken out. Polynesia, however, is still on my list, to experience it in an authentic setting.

Huh, gbl, 14b, ghb didnt make your chemsex...you might have missed the best one there bro :)

I did test GHB of course, but whilst being a relaxant, it did nothing for me in terms of libido or active enhancement. Generally, I found the following:

• Certain stimulants (particularly amphetamines) produce the most primal, prolonged and intensive orgasmic pleasure. 
• Cannabinoids (cannabis) help you to get lost in the moment and flow with it.
• At low doses many psychedelics can take you to a different place, and enhance physical sensitivity.
• Empathogens, such as MDMA, tend to take a similar path, with a more muted headspace, but hardly surprisingly enhanced empathy. 

What's heroin like? Ive lost so many friends to it, i want to know what it was they were chasing.

I wrote pages on this, but in a few words, like a comfort bubble will all cares and worries dissipated, and with a hint of euphoria. An escape I guess, but it doesn't last, as you are no doubt aware. What they were chasing will be individual, or perhaps, what they were escaping from (real or perceived).

I didn't find it to be a wonderful awesome incredible experience which I just had to have more of as soon as possible, but I could easily imagine that in certain circumstances, and if it was in reach, it might be tempting to grab hold of again.

What chemically causes it to remove anxiety?

For the actual chemistry behind its effects, I'm not sure. Perhaps someone more chemistry inclined can chime in.

could you detail a bad experience either due to dosage or compatibility with your system?

Most of my bad experiences occurred prior to formulation of my approach, but not all. Thereafter there was a common theme, and it revolved around complacency. I think this is common - the tendency to become too familiar with the use of a drug and thus take safety for granted.

This is one of the reasons I forced myself to actually sit and look at my own 10 Commandments prior to use. This was sometimes a pain, but having made mistakes and been lucky in terms of where I made them, I knew that short-cutting was, for some drugs, putting my life on the line.

For specific bad experiences I mentioned nutmeg in the film, but others include a couple of cannabinoids (5F-AKB48 and AM-2201). The former was a dystopian hell, from which I didn't recover for a week. The latter were traumatic episodes, and I recall lying on a bed in fetal position praying for it to end. These were amongst the most difficult to document in the book, because words simply couldn't adequately portray the depths of dread and terror I endured.

Yes, you could say that following these episodes I took safety a lot more seriously.

5F-AKB48 and AM-2201

Yea, been there, done that. Fuck. Just FUCK those.

That’s spice right? The first generation or close to it like 2010 me and my brother both literally had our lives flash in front of our eyes, like every experience growing up and then threw up for an hour.

Spice was initially a brand, with its active chemical being JWH-018, but later morphing to use others. Subsequently it became a generic term for artificial cannabinoids.

Yes. 100%, absolutely.

cannabinoids (5F-AKB48 and AM-2201)

Synthetic cannabinoids? So basically the shit they sell at headshops because weed is illegal?

Correct.

Since you went through the dread and horror, if that were to happen again, what would you try to do while enduring it to help yourself? Quick background to my question, I enjoy a few drugs overall, mainly MDMA or coke one or twice a year, and have had some good times on LSD but have had more bad experiences on it (and weed) and it has left me wary of doing it again so I stay away and I'm fine with that. But the slight fear is still there that it could happen.

I found that my experience of drugs helped enormously: I knew that it was going to end sooner or later, and I focused on that. I recall thinking at the time: if I was a kid and this was my first drug experience it would be 100x worse. That was the sort of incident that strengthened my resolve to complete the book.

Hopefully that answers the question: focus on the fact that it will end and the suffering (whilst horrific) is only temporary.

Note that the combo of LSD and weed can be problematic. The potential anxiety which weed can produce can be amplified by the LSD. Using them together is not something I would ever recommend, even for experienced players.

How much nutmeg are we talking about, here?

It varies, but you don't need to worry about the amount sprinkled upon your custard tart. It really was horrific.

i grew up when the techno/house scene was at it's peak. 1997-2000. I loved gatecrasher UK. Anyways, during that time we had ecstasy and it dropped off the planet. The stuff they do today, isn't what was around back then. What happened to it? What made it so bad?

Whatever I answer this with isn't going to cover all situations, but there are certainly a couple of factors in play.

The first is that too often street MDMA is adulterated: it contains other drugs, which might be cheaper to produce or more readily available, or simply, just sold in error. The latter is more common than is reported. The answer to this of course is to test the drug before consumption.

The second is that MDMA tends to be stronger now than it used to be. Pills in excess of 200mg are not uncommon, whereas they used to be rare. The answer to this is to know the dose, and of course the strength of the pill. Other 'rules' can also apply, for example, start low: you can take more later if you really want to.

Many of these problems are clearly caused or exacerbated by the war on drugs. If MDMA was legal, these issues would be open and testing facilities would be readily available.

Many of these problems are clearly caused or exacerbated by the war on drugs. If MDMA was legal, these issues would be open and testing facilities would be readily available.

We must blame ourselves for this problem. We vote for people that have done this horrible thing. We must hold ourselves to account and vote out the evil corrupt SOBs that want power to control masses through regulating their behavior. No government has any right to do anything about what a human being wants to do to themselves as long as it doesn't endanger others.

I wouldn't argue with any of that.

First, thanks for the excellent AMA. I don’t know that I’ve seen a better one. You answer everyone’s questions so thoroughly and thoughtfully. I’m not interested in taking drugs myself, but this was still an interesting read.

My questions: how did you acquire each drug and how did you test them before use for dosage accuracy and drug accuracy?

Thank you. Appreciated.

When I first started most drugs were legal to use and acquire in this country (UK). For instance, the vast majority of botanicals and many of the research chemicals could be legally purchased and even imported via the Internet. This changed in May 2016, after I had completed most of the mission.

For the others I travelled a lot. This was not only for legal reasons, but also to experience the drugs in their authentic setting.

I always tested where possible, and it was usually possible. There were exceptions of course (e.g. when consuming under the guidance of a shaman) but by and large I practised what I preached. I have a section in the book on how to test and indeed, accurately weigh.

how did you get into this and what is a common misconception people have about you?

I got into this when I started to ask questions about life and reality, and stumbled upon ayahuasca. In researching for that I learned a lot about drugs generally, and simultaneously discovered the magnitude of needless fatalities due to ignorance. On return, I felt compelled to do whatever I could to contribute to a more informed and safer drug user community.

The most common misconception is the one you would imagine: I use drugs all the time and I am a druggie. Those are in real life. Online, now that I have been outed as old(er) an extra misconception might have been that I am young (which I reluctantly guess I'm not).

Any thought on kratom?

The taste. Seriously. It took me an age to actually work out how to use kratom, and that was prior to having to overcome that taste, which I find to be revolting.

To be fair though, having jumped these hurdles, I enjoyed it. It always turned a boring afternoon into a good one, and was relaxing both physically and mentally. I did find, as I tested the different strains, that if I took too much, a kratom hangover was a real one.

When so many people successfully use it to overcome opioid addiction, I frankly view efforts to ban this plant to be a crime against humanity.

Hello, obligatory thanks. As a 30 something year old I became curious about drugs just over a year ago; contemplating life and going astray from the narrative. I found your book and it really made things a lot clearer about drugs and gave me confidence in being a safe drug user.

I have asked you many questions in the past from my main account (this is my drug account though) and I can just say thanks so much.

Questions: Do you spend much time talking about drugs in your day to day life with your friends and family? For example, when I first experienced LSD it had a rather strong side effect of wanting to talk about LSD a little too much. The experience was so overwhelming and life changing that I felt the need to share this with others. As time passed, I realised that this might cause more good than bad, so I don't bring it up unless asked.

Thank you: very much appreciated.

That's a really good point, and the answer is yes. I don't think it is limited to drugs though: it will surely apply to anything an individual throws him or herself into intensively. However, in our society the status of drugs make this more problematic than it would otherwise be.

At the time I certainly found a strong compulsion to tell anyone who would listen about the transformative experiences I had with psychedelics. I think that this is probably entirely normal, but can of course cause issues if not suppressed in certain situations. To this day I still it difficult to stop once I get started. :-)

What is subjective experience with Tryptamines vs Phenethylamines vs Lysergamides (both) ? What were the most common differences for you between the two classes of psychedelics? I have my own view on them but you've tried man more

I really find these difficult to compare, because of the word you use there, subjective. Yes, the experiences are different, and clearly so in some cases, but the emphasis changed dependent upon set, setting, dose, and my current disposition.

When people have asked me to rank them... where could I go with that? It totally depends. I am glad I experienced them all, but comparing them is chalk and cheese, and so very difficult to articulate.

What is your view?

I've tried Psilocybin, AMT and DMT for the Tryptamines, MDMA, MDA, 25i and DOI and San Pedro for the Phenethylamines, and LSD and Morning Glory seed extracts (LSA) for Lysergamides. I find Tryptamines for "heady" and mentally intoxicating and Phenethylamines more bodily oriented and less intoxicating in the I had more cognitive control if I needed. Lysgeramides seem to fit somewhere in the middle and depend more on dose and set and setting.

I think that is a very good description. In fact, as good as or possibly better than I could have come up with.

There's horses for courses going on there, in that the 'best' depends entirely on situation and what you are seeking from the exercise.

What was your most powerful psychedelic experience and what dosage of which substance did you use?

Ayahuasca. I have no idea of the dose, but I had two cups, as I didn't vomit when expected.

San Pedro was pretty intense in its way (albeit different and less all embracing). I had 25g of that.

How do you recommend your book be used? Do you feel it is a a good source for harm reduction?

It was written specifically for harm reduction. Initially it was intended for reference (select your drug and read the entry) but as I wrote it and people read it, it appeared that, as a general read, it had wider value and helped to embed general safety attitude and concepts. The final edition covers welfare and not just drug safety. It's Amazon page does in fact have a significant number of samples available to read freely via the 'Look Inside' feature.

Which was your favourite?

As answered above (or below) via a copy/paste from the last section of the book:

Q. Which drugs have you found to be the most interesting and the most beneficial to your personal development?

A. As a class, psychedelics, without question. For me, in the following order, as influenced by set and setting: Ayahuasca; 1p-LSD; San Pedro Cactus; Mushrooms; DMT. I feel that these were of enormous benefit, in much the same way as is already articulated by others. They bestowed a wider perspective, a greater understanding of the nature of consciousness, an awareness of oneness and connectedness, and so forth. I think they made me a kinder and better person.

Q. Which drugs have you enjoyed most recreationally?

A. In terms of basic physical stimulation and high, amphetamine. It comes at a high cost, however, which is why I only used it twice. My brain subsequently felt like a car which had had all the oil sucked out of it. I felt drained, for days.

Ephenidine is worth a reference too, because at a low dose it delivered both recreation and insight. Ketamine, cannabis, kava, and mephedrone are also worthy of honourable mentions, although it‘s difficult to be exclusive.

Q. What was the best drug for chemsex?

The experience differs significantly from class to class. I would suggest that certain stims (particularly amphetamines) produce the most prolonged intensive orgasmic pleasure. Cannabis helps you to get lost in the moment and flow with it. At lower doses some psychedelics can take you to a different place, and enhance sensitivity. Empathogens tend to take a similar path, with a more muted headspace, but hardly surprisingly attach to empathy.

I would offer some caution though. It is important to bear in mind that judgement is often impaired, and that events can develop quickly and potentially without due consideration. If applicable it is probably not the best idea for a single party to heavily engage whilst the other(s) doesn't. Equally, parameters should be agreed beforehand.

I would again re-enforce the commentary I make under the entry for methamphetamine, including with respect to relationships and addiction. Finally, the compound stress of sex and drugs on the body should also be contemplated.

So what drugs were being experimented with that lead to users dying in your research?

You know the usual culprits already. However, lesser known are some of the modern research chemicals, and perhaps deliriant botanicals which youngsters sometimes play with.

What are some examples?

Spin over to the forums/etc: people die of overdosing opioids, stims, etc. I'm not sure I understand your question now though. No-one died from my experiments, which were on myself. During my researched I noticed the number of forum members who were dying.

I believe the question is asking what you believe those forum members died from

Thanks. :-)

It wasn't always clear, but sometimes it was, given posting history, etc. And frequently it was the drugs just referred to.

In had the same question, and as someone who's never done any drugs, the only ones I'm familiar with are the ones you can OD on where they stop you from breathing. Morphine, heroine, fentanyl - the painkiller family. Are those the "usual culprits" you mean?

Certainly they are all there. There are others of course that can and do lead to other issues. I was always aware of the stress I was placing on my body regardless of the particular class of drug I was using.

I would like to grow my own datura and use it, I already know I need to do a very small amount, but anything else I should be weary of? I have a feeling your're referencing datura deaths.

Datura is definitely one I wouldn't be playing with, and absolutely not for recreational curiosity. It is not a path I would take if I were you, and I would never have done so if I wasn't writing this book. Regarding dose, bear in mind that one seed can be 7 times more powerful than the next.

[deleted]

Off the top of my head, various stims and combos, which can cause all sorts of issues if used in excess (e.g. EPH, 4F-MPA, 3-FPM), sedatives like flubromazepam, cannabinoids like 5F-AKB48, etc.

Have you tried krokodil (desomorphine)? Many say it’s the most deadly drug known to man. If so, what are your thoughts?

Stronger and stronger opioids: not the best idea. No, I've had my share, including heroin and morphine, but not desomorphine. For the full list of opioids I had, scroll down this page: https://www.drugusersbible.com/p/toc.html

Would you describe yourself as a spiritual person? How did drugs change your overall perception of reality?

The psychedelics have changed my perception completely. I feel that, at least to some degree, I have disconnected from my linear thoughts (my life narrative) to associate with the awareness behind them. The fact that you asked the question suggests that you know what I am talking about.

I could write an essay on the entire subject, but really I am still exploring and researching this aspect and probably always will be. This particular journey, of course, is not uncommon.

Do you use recreational drugs when not researching for his book? Are you addicted to any of the drugs? What do you think of people potentially using his book to start using drugs but then becoming addicted? Wouldn't an addict use more than what you recommends in regards to dosing? What do you think of drug users building up tolerance that can lead to someone using higher doses to feel the high?

(From StarfireSea on youtube)

A lot of questions there, so one at a time:

Does he use recreational drugs when not researching for his book?

Not regularly, no. I will smoke weed in Amsterdam, and I will explore the local psychoactive when I am travelling for research - for example, I recently engaged bhang lassi whilst visiting Varanasi in India.

But generally, do I sit at home and use drugs, or even go to the pub every week to use alcohol? No.

Is he addicted to any of the drugs?

No, as per the last question.

What does he think of people potentially using his book to start using drugs but then becoming

I don't think it works like that. Anyone considering the use of a drug (or drugs) is already on the path to using them. Indeed, having read my account for the drug, they may well decide that it isn't for them. I don't promote or glorify; I present truthful and honest accounts. If they are going to proceed anyway, I refer back to what I say in the video: it is far better to do so armed with sensible harm reduction and safety data, than embark from a position of relative ignorance.

Wouldn't an addict use more than what he recommends in regards to dosing? What does he think of drug users building up tolerance that can lead to someone using higher doses to feel the high?

These two questions are connected. Yes, of course, a regular user will build tolerance, and may seek to address this with higher doses. I do make the effort to explain the risks here, and of course, the risk of addiction, and I seek to present possible routes to prevent this.

I suggest that this partly comes back to the social situation we are all in: help and advice in this sort of area isn't as available as it should be. In the book I make every effort to help users mitigate these particular risks. Hopefully it helps to make a difference.

What is the most entheogenic drug experience you've encountered?

I think much of the time this is influenced by set and setting, as well as the dose used.

For me personally, probably MDA. That was a long intensive roll, and probably more so than MDMA even though I had a large dose of the latter. I think for some of the others (e.g. mephedrone, methylone) the shorter duration lessened the potential.

Would you advocate for the legalization of all drugs (similar to Portugal) and focus on treatment, presentation and education over incarceration? Basically treat drugs as a healthcare issue.

Yes, absolutely. I think that drugs should be legal, and regulated to ensure quality of supply, hand in hand with a real awareness and education program. People don't overdose or become addicted intentionally: they make mistakes, usually caused by ignorance and lack of education.

Ideally, my book shouldn't be necessary. It is trying to paper the cracks caused by a counterproductive and anti-human drug policy.

It’s probably been asked, but what’s the worst drug you’ve tried and why?

The terrifying delirium of nutmeg, many years ago, and the paranoia and trauma of a couple of the modern cannabinoids. All were horrendous. Words cannot adequately describe the former.

Do you have any permanent side effects?

Which scared you the most that you might have injured something within your body/brain?

I am not aware of any permanent side effects. I don't experience obvious issues, and I don't have any known medical conditions. Beyond this I feel fit and healthy, touch wood. I am probably considered to be a little weird in a social or cultural sense, but that may have been a prerequiste to embark upon this exercise in the first place. I am probably not the best person to answer this question though.

Regarding the second question, it is a good one. I think under the influence any fear was mainly with respect to my mind, getting back to normal, and death itself. The physical body side of it was usually considered downstream, on reflection. For example, has ketamine use damaged my bladder? I don't think so, but of course I don't know.

Do you have any addictions? if so how many, how do they feel, and how do they feel when you pile them up.

(From James Glodo on youtube)

No, I don't have any addictions.

Whilst I typically tested the drugs every couple of weeks or so, I was careful not to use drugs from the same class back-to-back. That's not the same as saying that I didn't WANT to take more drugs on subsequent days. In some cases I did, but I knew enough to understand that this would have been a disaster, and in some cases I took precautions (e.g. making sure that I didn't have easy access to more in the short term).

In the book I also refer to this tactic with respect to compulsive bingeing, for instance with respect to meth I made sure that I only had access to the 100mg which I intended to use during the course of the night.

How do you address the fact that recreational drugs dont come in standard doses? Hard to accurately quantify what you are taking when you are not sure how much of what is in your drugs

I try to cover this generically in the first section, under The 10 Commandments Of Safer Drug Use. This embraces procedures like careful weighing, purity testing, allergy testing and so forth, and common sense, like starting with a low dose.

So what's the best drug out there? What's your favorite? Excluding downside risks and potential addiction.

As answered above (or below) via a copy/paste from the last section of the book:

Q. Which drugs have you found to be the most interesting and the most beneficial to your personal development?

A. As a class, psychedelics, without question. For me, in the following order, as influenced by set and setting: Ayahuasca; 1p-LSD; San Pedro Cactus; Mushrooms; DMT. I feel that these were of enormous benefit, in much the same way as is already articulated by others. They bestowed a wider perspective, a greater understanding of the nature of consciousness, an awareness of oneness and connectedness, and so forth. I think they made me a kinder and better person.

Q. Which drugs have you enjoyed most recreationally?

A. In terms of basic physical stimulation and high, amphetamine. It comes at a high cost, however, which is why I only used it twice. My brain subsequently felt like a car which had had all the oil sucked out of it. I felt drained, for days.

Ephenidine is worth a reference too, because at a low dose it delivered both recreation and insight. Ketamine, cannabis, kava, and mephedrone are also worthy of honourable mentions, although it‘s difficult to be exclusive.

Q. What was the best drug for chemsex?

The experience differs significantly from class to class. I would suggest that certain stims (particularly amphetamines) produce the most prolonged intensive orgasmic pleasure. Cannabis helps you to get lost in the moment and flow with it. At lower doses some psychedelics can take you to a different place, and enhance sensitivity. Empathogens tend to take a similar path, with a more muted headspace, but hardly surprisingly attach to empathy.

I would offer some caution though. It is important to bear in mind that judgement is often impaired, and that events can develop quickly and potentially without due consideration. If applicable it is probably not the best idea for a single party to heavily engage whilst the other(s) doesn't. Equally, parameters should be agreed beforehand.

I would again re-enforce the commentary I make under the entry for methamphetamine, including with respect to relationships and addiction. Finally, the compound stress of sex and drugs on the body should also be contemplated.

Are you high in that picture?

Actually, no, lol. Do I look high? :-)

Do you think there are different harm profiles between shrooms and lysergamides? I ask because mushroom decriminalization has passed for the first time in Colorado and, while good, I don’t think there’s a difference in the potential danger of it

I am not aware of any difference regarding risk profile, and I personally have never felt that I was putting myself in harms way when I used either.

The only argument I have ever heard with respect to this was via Terence Mckenna, who suggested that shrooms have been successfully field tested for thousands of years, whilst LSD is under 100 years old.

You've noted that you're a father in some of your other responses. It's very easy for parents to slip into a sense of 'Do as I say, not as I did when I was young'; things that we did are fine, but too dangerous for our loved ones to contemplate.

With that in mind, are there any drugs that you'd recommend for your children to try when they're of a suitable age? Something that, all risks being managed as far as possible, would be something you'd encourage people to try at least once?

That's a tough question, partly because of the cultural norms we operate in as individuals, and partly because it is their individual choice and I generally resist influencing them in this area. I'd rather spin it around and ask it like this: Are there any drugs that I would recommend to myself to use, if I could go back and visit myself as a child?

The answer to that is yes. I would tell myself to use some psychedelics, and would provide a few options. Why?

Largely because I think it would bestow whatever wisdom I have now at an earlier age. I would make fewer mistakes, I would see a bigger picture. I would be generally a calmer more positive influence on those around me. I would reflect more, and probably be happier for it.

More widely, there are certain people in society I look at and think: you really should experience a psychedelic because it would make you less of a jerk and more empathetic.

I hope that answers your question. :-)

You mentioned you travel often and explore the drug cultures of the places you visit. Which was the most interesting or novel of these that youve encountered?

The most intense was the one which had the most long term effect: ayahuasca in Peru. However, they do tend to be different in so many ways making meaningful comparison difficult. As mentioned earlier, my recent bhang lassi expedition to India was intense, but in an entirely different way, and I also learned from it. Before that, shrooms in South East Asia: again different. Non-psychedelics have also had their moments.

This is why I travel. It's not just the psychoactive; it's the location, the scene and the entire cultural package. I sought to record some of this in the book, but I also have many photographs, some of which I have uploaded.

Which drug if any would you consider the beat choice to enhance creativity and work on something like music?

For creativity, I always felt that psychedelics had a role to play, at least for me in terms of writing and new ideas for the book. I know that many musicians believe this too with respect to their work. Also, wasn't cannabis often cited in the old days, by Jazz players and even as recently as John Lennon?

Have you experienced and documented any of the common drug combinations like hippie flipping, candy flipping, etc. and, if so, what was your experience? Did you find any combination that greatly enhanced the effects of another drug?

I have experienced a few, but generally it was something I avoided, because it would have been impossible to document all the possibilities. I tried to record each ingredient stand alone, although of course it was sometimes difficult not to refer to common habits.

Firstly, thank you so much for your work. We need much more effective harm reduction strategies and it seems you have made a valuable contribution to our societal good in that arena.

Secondly, I would like to ask you to think about adding some sort of index or information about potential planetary impact - like greenhouse gas estimations for production or estimated water usage/waste/pollution) I think that could be a really interesting way to further expand harm reduction beyond the self. I know that due to the illegality of some of the drugs this may be difficult to calculate beyond basic production (transport in an illegal market would likely be prohibitively difficult to calculate due to unknowns despite it's significant impact). But I feel that an addition to this end could provide some valuable perspective and help responsible users to think more deeply about their choices' impact.

Thirdly, I recognize the black market for drugs is terrible for the planet and people - due to lack of regulation, lack of accurate information, people hiding production and polluting (bodies or biosphere), violence/exploitation etc, - how do you feel about the legalization of drugs? Do you believe all drugs should be legalized and regulated? Or some left to black markets to fulfill demand? What are your views?

Lastly, I would like to pick your brain about something due to your diverse experimentation, harm reduction focus and attempts to be objective (as much as one can).... In light of the current ecological crises, (including climate change, mass extinction unfolding, and the various pressures humanity is currently exerting on our planetary systems and citizens), was there a drug that compelled you to feel more aware? Did any experience help you to act? to feel motivated to take action? Or connected you meaningfully to nature? To the global community? To other species? We're there any that allowed you to be more aware of the harsh realities we are facing without becoming too overwhelmed? Did any drug help to simultaniously acknowledge ones place in the world, and thus contribution to destruction, while also recognizing one's own potential to change that trend individually and as a part of larger society? I have heard accounts of psychedelics being promising in this regard but I was curious due to the breadth of variety of substances you have consumed if you may have some insight or experiences to share.

You don't have to answer all of those questions specifically, I just wanted to provide a variety of jumping off points for you to talk about drugs and the planet and your views. If you're able to get to these, thanks!

A very thoughtful question, or set of questions, and good ones.

Regarding legalisation, I think that drugs should be legal, and regulated to ensure quality of supply, hand in hand with a real awareness and education program. People don't overdose or become addicted intentionally: they make mistakes, usually caused by ignorance and lack of education. The ecological impact is yet another facet of this madness.

Ideally, my book shouldn't be necessary. It is trying to paper the cracks caused by a counterproductive and anti-human drug policy.

Regarding ecology and awareness, yes, psychedelics. The ayahuasca experience was related, but for me at least, lysergamides (including LSD) have always enhanced the connection with nature, other species, and the planet. On many occasions I took myself into the wild, simply to enjoy that connection, and the sense of awe. The beauty was often indescribable, and the interconnectedness of everything was palpable and so very obvious.

The first time I encountered this I was astonished, as it was unexpected. Thereafter, it became habitual: if I used this sub-class of drug I would plan it to ensure that I was able to encounter nature. I could was lyrical for hours about this, but it left me with profound feelings of oneness.

Yes, absolutely agreed. Glad to hear that you were able to find that connection through your experiences. I have always been curious of the various psychedelics that foster nature-relatedness for people. May I ask how the ayahuasca experience was related for you? Thanks for sharing. Hmm, habitual as in repeated to renew that connection? Or as in the experience of oneness was repeated habitually in experiences? Just want to clarify a bit. Yea, that seems like it would be the place to be (for anybody reading though, please take care of the environments you end up in, look underfoot and if stewards ask you not to go into an area, please don't go into that area for the sake of the things that live there full time!!) I had a very difficult but transformative experience in a nature area after witnessing plastic pollution and the extent to which we are ambivalent towards it. It has changed the trajectory of my life in some ways. It seems a bit got cut out there at the end~ but I think I got what you were saying, thanks for responding!

Ayahuasca was more like communicating with a more more fundamental entity, as in the common descriptions of 'mother ayahuasca'. It was more of a feel than a tangible.

Yes, habitual as in repeated each time I engaged the experience. I do emphasise your cautions there, certainly. It is easy to lose context whilst appreciating the wonder of the ride.

Hi Dominic, awesome work! I have a question. How did you feel about the effects of DXM, compared to the more "classical psychedelics" did you find it to be one of the more or less profound?

It took me by surprise. I was expecting more of a ketamine or ephenidine type dissociation, but instead it felt more like a distancing from normal perception rather than a clean break. I did find depth to it, but perhaps not as profound, and less so than most classic psychedelics.

This is quite a complicated drug, certainly in terms of effects under different doses, and indeed, with respect to safety. My pre-use perspective, that it was somehow a poor man's dirty drug, was flawed.

What are your views on combos? Have you experimented with any worth mentioning?

Formally, for the book, I tested each drug individually. I have experienced some combos, but there were/are far to many possibilities to formalise. In terms of safety, I usually refer to the excellent chart produced by TripSit.

What do you think is the best way too introduce someone to psilocybin mushrooms or whether one should recommend them at all?

Can you miss what you've never had?

I know that many people suggest the heroic dose, but for first time users of psychedelics I would personally suggest caution. They are generally the most benign of drugs, but there is never a rush: if you are going to take them recreationally why not test the water with a low dose first, if only for self assurance?

How much were you inspired by https://erowid.org/library/books_online/essential_psychedelic_guide/essential_psychedelic_guide.pdf and are you in fact DM Turner successfully reincarnated through the DMT dimensions? ;)

No, I'm not Mr Turner, lol. I do have his book in my library, but I have (very) many drug books in my library. :-)

What was your experience like with research chemicals such as mxe, meo3pcp, 2cb, etc? I had a few experiences with mxe that brought me out of a depressive state and I have never really struggled with depression since. Do you find that certain drugs are perceived as recreational but could instead be used as a legitimate treatment or therapeutic tool?

Yes, absolutely. This applies largely psychedelics and to some extent dissociatives.

I felt that I also grew under some of these, despite their sometimes edgy reputation as reschems. They bestowed a new and different perspective, which I believe that, when stuck in a cycle of depression, can surely be of significant value. That therapeutic research and use is hindered and fettered by legislation is another facet I consider to be a crime against humanity.

Can you please please please describe your experience on Ayahuasca, and your thoughts on why it's so powerful? Do you believe that more people should experience it, and what benefits would come from it? Thank you for your work.

For me it was transformative, and luckily the book's website includes the ayahuasca entry as a sample: https://www.drugusersbible.com/2019/03/sample-page-ayahuasca.html

I hope that helps. :-)

My only question is: Have you sent Joe rogan your book amd asked him to appear on his podcast? Im sure JR would love to hear your stories and so would I.

I've tried to contact him, and also attempted to find his address to send the book to. Unfortunately, he seems to be well protected by his people, and I've never had a response. I'd love to do it though.

What are the sources that you trust and recommend? What is your opinion on erowid and paychonoutwiki?

There is a lot of good work out there, produced through a variety of sources. I could also add TripSit, BlueLight, Drugs Forum and others. When I tested a particular drug I researched across them all: after all, my life was sometimes on the line.

Note also that there's misleading and even dangerous material around the Internet. I generally sought to separate the wheat from the chaff in each case and record accordingly.

What drugs are the most unsafe or unsafely used and why?

That's a really wide question, and the answer depends largely upon what safety measures are adopted and used.

As classes of drugs which I feel are inherently unsafe, I usually cite deliriants and artificial cannabinoids. These pose so many issues, and I have endured some really traumatic experiences at their hands.

Which of the drugs you have tried would you deem viable contenders as medicinal drugs? (Besides cannabis)

I have tried mdma multiple times, although the trip is nice, the aftermath isn't always as nice, i did use it as responsible as possible and never when i wasn't in a good mindset mentally, looking back i only have good memories from it, but i stopped doing it because of unrelated circumstances my mental health took a turn for the worse, i don't use medication because that partly ties into a fobia i have, and i think i have the mental capacity to get better by putting in the work, although it is probably much harder and it takes longer than if i just had taken meds.

I do however have an interest in psychoactive drugs that give insight into myself (or something trippy like that 🤣) That would bring to light the fobia's i have and the anxiety i live with every day... I'm really curious but simultaneously scared in case i worsen my mental health instead of improving on it... it's kind of ironic

I would love to hear from you

Ps. If there's an answer to a similar question i kindly ask for a link to that 🙏

I think the answer, broadly, is many of the psychedelics and some of the dissociatives. Some of my answers above sort of cover this ground, but the delivery of different perspectives is often transformative for the individual, and I can certainly appreciate the potential in a medicinal scenario.

I do understand your dilemma though. It is a complex area, and is very prone to individual attributes and circumstance. It definitely requires a great deal of research prior to any embarkation.

For individual psychedelics, some of the book's pages are free to view on its Amazon page, so might be worth a perusal.

Thank you for your reply.

I think I'll buy your book, i think your work is wildly interesting first and foremost but also educational. I've read the entire reddit ama and can't be more interested in what you have to say. Besides my (in comparison) very limited experience with drugs first hand but also second hand, I not only want to look for suitable experiences for myself but also try to understand why the second hand experiences i had where so effective in destroying those around me, its something i don't understand to this day and i think your work will be quite insightful in that, which undoubtedly will be a "healing" process on its own. So thank you for probably enabling that experience for me but also so many others.

One question though, do you your process as a sacrifice as which in return get to share knowledge to those who need it, or has the overall experience been a blessing for who you are today as a person, and the ability to share your experiences is a rewarding perk to it.

Cheers

Overall, I consider it to be a blessing, for two reasons. The first relates to self-benefit in terms of the personal effects of the psychedelic experiences. The second pertains, as you state there, to being in a position to help others, which is hugely rewarding. :-)

Bit of a mundane question, but what’s your favourite drug/s and why? Any experiences you found especially noteworthy?

As answered above (or below) via a copy/paste from the last section of the book:

Q. Which drugs have you found to be the most interesting and the most beneficial to your personal development?

A. As a class, psychedelics, without question. For me, in the following order, as influenced by set and setting: Ayahuasca; 1p-LSD; San Pedro Cactus; Mushrooms; DMT. I feel that these were of enormous benefit, in much the same way as is already articulated by others. They bestowed a wider perspective, a greater understanding of the nature of consciousness, an awareness of oneness and connectedness, and so forth. I think they made me a kinder and better person.

Q. Which drugs have you enjoyed most recreationally?

A. In terms of basic physical stimulation and high, amphetamine. It comes at a high cost, however, which is why I only used it twice. My brain subsequently felt like a car which had had all the oil sucked out of it. I felt drained, for days.

Ephenidine is worth a reference too, because at a low dose it delivered both recreation and insight. Ketamine, cannabis, kava, and mephedrone are also worthy of honourable mentions, although it‘s difficult to be exclusive.

Q. What was the best drug for chemsex?

The experience differs significantly from class to class. I would suggest that certain stims (particularly amphetamines) produce the most prolonged intensive orgasmic pleasure. Cannabis helps you to get lost in the moment and flow with it. At lower doses some psychedelics can take you to a different place, and enhance sensitivity. Empathogens tend to take a similar path, with a more muted headspace, but hardly surprisingly attach to empathy.

I would offer some caution though. It is important to bear in mind that judgement is often impaired, and that events can develop quickly and potentially without due consideration. If applicable it is probably not the best idea for a single party to heavily engage whilst the other(s) doesn't. Equally, parameters should be agreed beforehand.

I would again re-enforce the commentary I make under the entry for methamphetamine, including with respect to relationships and addiction. Finally, the compound stress of sex and drugs on the body should also be contemplated.

Well done you. Do you specifically state that people's experiences on drugs vary considerably based on personal tolerance, other bodily issues, and of course whether what they are taking is what they believe it to be?

Also I imagine you must have tried opiates given the sheer number you've taken; how did you stave off addiction?

Yes, yes and yes. Here is the list of drugs I used (am I allowed to post a link?): https://www.drugusersbible.com/2019/03/alphabetical-list.html

I have mentioned addiction in some of the other responses, but generally I applied a strict regime in terms of time, never testing drugs from the same class back-to-back, for example. I also provide suggestions to help with this as a general issue in the text.

I never really believed that I was in danger of addiction, but did feel sometimes that there was risk of an ongoing compulsive re-dosing binge.

What do you think about Kava tea? I've been trying to quit or taper my alcohol consumption. Been enjoying it.

I have to say that I enjoyed my Kava experience immensely. I can certainly see why it is a preferable alternative to alcohol for many. Indeed, I think I described it above as rather like an alcohol inebriation with most of the bad bits removed. :-)

didn't Shulgin already do this?

Shulgin's research was limited to certain types of psychedelic.

What do you think is missing from everyday life in society that makes people want to escape reality by using drugs in the first place? Is it a lack of philosophy? A lack of deep fundamental meaning in life and the universe? Is it the routine and judgmental attitude of society? Is it the lack of love in the world? The close mindedness and boredom?

(From Robert Roberts via YouTube)

This is not necessarily an accurate precept. Many people do use drugs to escape misery, but equally many simply use them for pleasure or exploration. In either case, the book is intended to help mitigate the inherent risks: it won't solve social misery, which has a myriad of causes.

Some of your question there lead inevitably to the use psychedelics. These are generally more benign than other classes, and I cannot deny that my own introduction to drugs was via this route: I wanted some of those questions answering. I wanted to understand life, reality, et al.

Did they answer the questions? No, but they did move me further along the path, and allowed me to more readily experience different perspectives.

This is sooo cool. Thank you for this. Is meth the most amazing feeling you have ever been able to achieve? Is it as addictive as people say? Did you try acid (lsd)? How was it for you?

Methamphetamine invoked the most intense high I have ever experienced, and was the hardest to resist. Had I more than the 100mg available (and I made sure beforehand that I didn't), I would have continued to binge. The aftermath though... no, absolutely not worth it. It took me ages to get over, and even now I can hanker back to it if I think about it. I can absolutely see how, for regular users, it sucks the joy out of everyday life and takes years to recover from.

Yes, I used LSD and other lysergamides. My story was generally positive, but I did take care with set and setting. If you go to the book's Amazon page I think you can freely read its entry (or that of the similar 1P-LSD) by clicking on the 'Look Inside' feature.

what is one drug that you would never concern taking again? like whoa that was maybe too extreme for me.

It's probably dose dependent. There are classes of drugs I would avoid though, based largely on the experience itself and their inherent dangers: deliriants and artificial cannabinoids. Absolutely never again.

Since this is a "sample size of one" experiment, why do you think the results can be generalized to others? For example, if you blindfolded yourself and crossed a busy intersection and survived, there is nothing to suggest anyone trying the same would be as lucky.

I don't do it like that. I provide research information and data, and then flow into the subjective experience itself, to enable at least some appreciation of factors like headspace, loss of judgement, etc. I absolutely don't say: Xmg was okay for me so it will be okay for you. That would be ridiculous.

What does amiodarone feel like?

Amiodarone? Isn't that for irregular heartbeat? The full list of drugs is here: https://www.drugusersbible.com/2019/03/alphabetical-list.html

If it isn't too personal, what is your perspective on religion/spirituality/your place in the universe after trying so many psychedelics?

That's a work in progress.

I no longer automatically connect myself to my linear thought patterns, but increasingly to the awareness behind this. At the same time I study quantum and related issues (see Food For The Psychedelic Mind if you have the book). The big challenge is in placing these and other ingredients of the soup together to view or perceive a credible or holistic picture. I'm not even certain that is possible, but hey.... at least I am asking questions.

Thanks for talking with us!

Using your experience with psychedelics, what do you think about the "stoned ape theory" of evolution? Do see it as a possibility?

Bonus question: Many people describe DMT as a more religious experience than other psychedelics, do you find this to be true?

Yes, I consider the 'stoned ape theory' to be a possibility. Turning it around, I have not seen it disproved, and Mckenna is certainly persuasive.

I suspect that DMY/ayahuasca/etc are more often described as spiritual because they tend to invoke a three-dimensional unfoldment, as opposed to say, coonectedness or visual distortion. That is a more radical shift of perspective, which lends itself to a more fundamental questioning of reality.

Perhaps in cases like my own, transcendental change was driven via multi-drug exposure, although it was certainly kicked-off by ayahuasca.

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Nightmarish. Like being dragged into an abyss. I foolishly tried it three times, each time thinking it might be different. It wasn't.

Same for me, I actually believed all of reality was rolling up and then my mind body map became checkered. It felt like I was rebooting and my reptilian mind was the first part to awaken, I took immediate flight.

Checkered is an interesting word, and I know what you mean. For me, colour became bright, edges became extremely sharp, and everything seemed to be morphing in a terrifying manner, stacking into an infinity of two dimensional layers. All wrapped in a feeling of trauma and fear.

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Yes, the loss of ego and identity. However, unlike classic psychedelics, for me this had an edge to it, which was sinister and uncontrolled. I felt like my soul was being sucked out of my body into an inferno.

Have you ever heard of the Just Say No campaign? If you did you just thumbed your nose at it.

(From J Carver on YouTube)

Perhaps I am stating the obvious, but 'Just Say No' doesn't work and never will. Despite unremitting propaganda and judicial persecution, 250 million people in the world do use drugs. It is thus a war against humanity, and the book is intended to help the victims protect themselves and mitigate risk.

250 million - that's it? I have to imagine that number is higher.

It's a UN figure for the year 2014 and equates to about 1 in 20 adults. Clearly it doesn't include legals such as alcohol.