A synthetic hallucinogenic substance, 5-MeO-DIPT, also known as Foxy or Foxy Methoxy, is a substance of abuse commonly used as a club drug. The use of Foxy can result in dangerous and sometimes fatal effects, particularly when it is used alongside other substances, and there are many risks associated with the drug.
- Foxy Methoxy, 5-MeO-DIPT, is a synthetic psychoactive tryptamine.
- Foxy can cause hallucinations and serious psychoactive effects, particularly in high doses.
- High-dose or prolonged use of Foxy can result in dangerous or fatal effects.
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Understanding Foxy Methoxy (5-MeO-DIPT)
Foxy Methoxy, or Foxy, is the street name for a synthetic tryptamine, 5-Methoxy-N, N-diisopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-DIPT). It is a psychoactive substance with hallucinogenic and stimulant effects, first recognized as a drug of abuse in 1999 and found to be widely used across the United States within the following years. [1]
Since 2003, 5-MeO-DIPT has been listed as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and its lack of medicinal purpose. It is structurally similar to 5-MeO-DMT, a naturally occurring substance, although the two substances cause differing effects, and 5-MeO-DIPT is man-made. [2][3]
Typically, 5-MeO-DIPT is purchased as a pill, capsule, or powder that is ingested orally or inhaled nasally, but there have also been reports of the drug being smoked. Tablets often include embossed logos. 5-MeO-DIPT is often used as a “club drug” at raves and nightclubs alongside similar substances such as MDMA. [2]
How it affects the brain
Research shows that 5-MeO-DIPT affects the level and activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin. It acts as a receptor agonist at the 5-HT2A receptor, which is thought to cause its hallucinogenic effects. It also acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, causing an increase in the brain’s serotonin levels. [3]
It also has some effect on dopamine activity, increasing dopamine release in the brain. This is associated with the development of addiction, as dopamine is involved in the reward circuit and reinforces pleasure and associated behaviors.
5-MeO-DIPT increases dopamine indirectly, unlike most addictive substances that directly impact dopamine and the reward system. Instead, 5-MeO-DIPT impacts serotonin receptors, indirectly causing an increase in dopamine. [3][4]
The “high” and short-term effects
The effects of 5-MeO-DIPT emerge within 20-30 minutes of ingestion and can last for around 3-6 hours. Effects are dose-dependent, meaning that higher doses cause more intense effects. High doses are said to produce similar effects to the drug LSD. [2][5]
Common side effects
The effects of 5-MeO-DIPT are reportedly similar to those of MDMA, with psychoactive and stimulant effects. This can include: [1][2][4][5]
- Euphoric “high”
- Restlessness
- Social connectedness
- Talkativeness
- Reduced inhibitions
- Clenching of the jaw
- Visual and auditory hallucinations and distortions
- Muscle tension
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- High body temperature
- Paranoia
- Emotional distress
Is Foxy Methoxy dangerous?
5-MeO-DIPT is a dangerous substance. Although it is not a widely researched substance, there are many reports of serious or fatal outcomes, particularly when it is combined with other substances, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or other serotonergic substances. [1][3][6]
Additionally, as an unregulated substance, the content, potency, and purity of 5-MeO-DIPT can vary between doses and may cause further risks associated with contamination or unexpected potency.
Health risks and neurotoxicity
- Foxy can cause severe psychological and physical effects with short-term and long-term use, overdose, and addiction. For example: [1][2][4][7]
- Foxy use, particularly chronic and high-dose use, can increase the risk of psychotic symptoms.
- Combining 5-MeO-DIPT with MAOIs has resulted in fatalities.
- 5-MeO-DIPT can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition that occurs as a result of increased serotonin levels. This risk is increased when it is used alongside other serotonergic substances.
- Of 41 cases reported to Poison Control between April 2002 and June 2003, major outcomes occurred in two cases, moderate in 26, minor in 8, and only one case showed no effect.
- Significant impairments in cognitive function can occur with prolonged use.
- Rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition that involves muscle breakdown and the release of toxins into the blood, can occur as a result of 5-MeO-DIPT use.
5-MeO-DIPT overdose
Signs of a 5-MeO-DIPT overdose can include: [1][6][7]
- Hallucinations
- Significant increases in heart rate and blood pressure
- Seizure
- Loss of consciousness
- Muscle rigidity or clenching
- Temporary paralysis
- Dilated pupils
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Tremors, tics, or uncontrolled movements
Using large doses of 5-MeO-DIPT can increase the risk of overdose. This risk might also be increased if additional substances are used concurrently. Some people might be more at risk of experiencing 5-MeO-DIPT overdose and toxicity if they have underlying medical health issues, such as impaired kidney function or cardiac issues.
Responding to a Foxy Methoxy overdose
If a Foxy overdose is suspected, contact a medical professional for advice, or in case of an emergency, such as seizures, loss of consciousness, or stopped breathing, call 911 immediately.
Urgent medical attention may be required and can include careful monitoring and management of vital signs, and administration of benzodiazepines to reduce heart rate and agitation. [1]
Addiction and dependence potential
5-MeO-DIPT, like other hallucinogens, is not typically considered an addictive substance in the same manner as drugs of abuse such as opioids or stimulants. However, because of its effects on the brain, including increased releases of dopamine at higher doses, prolonged use of 5-MeO-DIPT can result in the development of dependence, tolerance, and addiction.
Tolerance develops with chronic use and leads to the need to use increased doses to feel the same effects, as the body becomes used to the substance.
This can often occur alongside the development of dependence, when the body becomes reliant upon the use of the substance, resulting in withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped. There is no documented evidence of physical withdrawal symptoms, although psychological dependence and cravings can occur.
Although 5-MeO-DIPT impacts dopamine levels, which is a hallmark of addiction development, its mechanisms vary from those of typical addictive substances. As such, its addiction potential is thought to be lower than that of typical addictive substances, although prolonged use may result in neurological and psychological changes. [4]
Legal status of 5-MeO-DIPT
5-MeO-DIPT is a Schedule I controlled substance. It has no recognized medicinal purpose and has a high potential for abuse and harm. It was made a controlled substance in 2003, when the Drug Enforcement Administration recognized an urgent need to control its distribution and use within club environments. [2]
Harm reduction and safety considerations
The most effective way to prevent harm from 5-MeO-DIPT is to avoid using the substance completely. However, people using 5-MeO-DIPT can utilize harm reduction strategies and safety considerations to reduce their potential harm, including:
- Use small doses, particularly when using a new batch.
- Limit use, avoiding regular or everyday use.
- Be aware of the potential psychological effects of 5-MeO-DIPT and avoid use if there is a history of mental illness, particularly psychotic symptoms.
- Avoid using other substances alongside 5-MeO-DIPT, especially substances and medications that impact serotonin, to reduce the risk of overdose, drug interactions, and serotonin syndrome.
- Avoid using 5-MeO-DIPT alone, ensuring a comfortable setting, trusted friends, and a clear strategy of how to manage in the occurrence of serious adverse events.
- 5-MeO-DIPT can reduce inhibitions and is often associated with an increased risk of sexual harm and high-risk sexual activity. People should be aware of this risk and take precautions before use or when engaging in sexual activity.
Seeking treatment and support
People who frequently use 5-MeO-DIPT may require professional support and treatment to help reduce and stop use and manage any underlying contributing factors.
For example, psychological therapies can be beneficial in substance use issues, as there are often underlying mental health symptoms and conditions that contribute. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective substance use treatment and can help identify and change harmful behaviors, manage underlying distress and trauma, and teach positive coping strategies.
Treatment can include the use of rehabilitative services, which aim to support individuals in reducing their use with professional guidance, monitoring, and physical and mental health support. Available rehab centers can be viewed on the Recovered Directory.
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