pharmacology

Bufotenin is a tryptamine related to the neurotransmitter serotonin.

toxicity

Ingestion of Bufo toad venom and eggs by humans has resulted in several reported cases of poisoning, some of which resulted in death. The acute toxicity of bufotenin in rodents has been calculated to have an LD50 of between 200 and 300 mg/kg, which by comparison, is comparable to the LD50 for intravenous morphine (200-300 mg/kg) in mice. Death occurs by respiratory arrest.

biotransformation

Orally administered bufotenine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism by the enzyme monoamine oxidase.

absorption

Rapidly absorbed following intravenous administration.