Intravenous (IV) and intramuscular (IM) routes are rarely, if ever, used outside research settings due to the high potency, powerful effects and quicker onset.

Particularly sensitive individuals can experience symptoms of overdose at dosages in the normal (for most users) range — as low as 20 mg.

[citation needed] Gloria Discerni, 18, died after overdosing on a drug initially believed to be LSD.

[11][10] In relation to this, it is an extremely potent agonist of the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor in vitro, showing the highest potency of any other tryptamine assessed in one study.

[12][17][10] Similarly, it is of very low potency as a monoamine reuptake inhibitor (IC50Tooltip half-maximal inhibitory concentration values >1,000 nM).

[19] 5-MeO-AMT produces the head-twitch response, a behavioral proxy of psychedelic effects, in animals, and this is reversed by the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin.

[21][11] The drug does not produce locomotor hyperactivity, behavioral sensitization, conditioned place preference, or self-administration, further indicating a lack of psychostimulant-like effects as well as misuse potential.

[26] A Schedule 9 substance is a substance which may be abused or misused, the manufacture, possession, sale or use of which should be prohibited by law except when required for medical or scientific research, or for analytical, teaching or training purposes with approval of Commonwealth and/or State or Territory Health Authorities.

5-MeO-AMT is a Schedule I controlled substance in the state of Florida, making it illegal to buy, sell, or possess.