Ayahuasca contains natural monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

• Combining it with psychiatric drugs, stimulants, or certain over-the-counter medicines can cause severe,

  life-threatening reactions like serotonin syndrome or dangerous high blood pressure. Never stop prescribed medications without medical supervision.

  Categories of Medication with High Risk of Interaction

• • Psychiatric Medications: Various classes of antidepressants, including those that affect serotonin levels, are known to cause life-threatening reactions when combined with MAOIs. These interactions can lead to severe neurological and cardiovascular distress.

  • Stimulants: Medications used for attention or energy can lead to extreme cardiovascular strain, including dangerous spikes in heart rate and blood pressure, when interacting with the alkaloids in ayahuasca.

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants: Substances that induce sleep or reduce anxiety can lead to dangerous respiratory depression or unpredictable heart function.

  • Analgesics: Certain strong pain medications can interact with the body's serotonin system or significantly

    lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of medical emergencies.

  • Cardiovascular Medications: Drugs used to manage blood pressure or heart rhythm can cause severe

    instability if an interaction occurs.

  • Other Medical Contraindications: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and certain medications for neurological conditions are often strictly contraindicated due to unpredictable neurochemical interactions.