4-AcO-DMT Synthesis: Comprehensive Guide to Processes and Techniques

Introduction:

4-Acetoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine, commonly referred to as 4-AcO-DMT or psilacetin, is a less explored psychedelic compound belonging to the tryptamine family. It shares structural similarities with psilocybin and psilocin, active components of psilocybin mushrooms. Though it binds to serotonin receptors in the brain, the exact mode of action remains uncertain.

This compound was first created in 1963 by scientists Albert Hofmann and Franz Troxler. Its psychoactivity was not immediately tested. By 1999, David E. Nichols highlighted its potential for pharmacological studies as a cost-effective alternative to psilocybin. Its recreational use started gaining traction in the 2010s following its presence in online research chemical markets.

Equipment & Glassware for 4-AcO-DMT Synthesis:

• Flasks: 2 L & 1 L (three-necked round bottom)
• Retort stand, clamp, and stirrer (magnetic or top) with heater
• Reflux condenser, rotovap machine, and vacuum source
• Funnels: Drip (250 mL), Buchner, and conventional
• Miscellaneous: glass rod, spatula, pH paper, dimethylamine gas kit, etc.
• Measuring cylinders: 1 L, 250 mL, and 100 mL

Reagents:

• Starting material: 4-Benzyloxyindole, 17.5 g
• Solvents: Diethyl ether, Dichloromethane, Hexane, Methanole, THF, Dioxane, etc.
• Reactants: Oxalyl chloride, Dimethylamine, Sodium chloride, Lithium aluminum hydride, etc.

4-AcO-DMT Synthesis Process:

Formation of 4-Benzyloxyindol-3-yl-N,N-dimethylglyoxylamide:

• Mix 4-benzyloxyindole in anhydrous Et2O.
• Add oxalyl chloride while maintaining temperature between 0-5 °C.
• Introduce anhydrous dimethylamine, creating an off-white slurry.
• Filter the mixture, wash, and dry. The product yield is around 77%.

Formation of 4-Benzyloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine:

• Prepare a slurry using LiAlH4 in THF.
• Heat and add a solution of 4-benzyloxyindol-3-yl-N,N-dimethylglyoxylamide in dioxane and THF.
• React overnight and cool the mixture.
• Add water, filter, and dry. The product yield is about 94.8%.

Formation of 4-Acetoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine fumarate:

• Mix palladium on charcoal, sodium acetate, benzene, acetic anhydride, and 4-Benzyloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine in a hydrogenation bottle.
• Shake under hydrogen gas, filter, and separate the components.
• Dissolve the residue in MeOH and introduce fumaric acid.
• Filter the product, yielding about 74.8%.

This synthesized 4-AcO-DMT offers a potential alternative for research purposes, showcasing a comprehensive 4-aco-dmt synthesis process.