One researcher compared the DBVs of dying Americans with those in India. Thousands of nurses and doctors were interviewed and asked what they had witnessed as death drew near. DBVs were often reported. Except for a few religious differences, the DBVs of both cultures were incredibly similar. The consistency of the experiences between those dying in America and those in India has guided me to believe there is more to the DBV experience than wishful thinking.
Medications can certainly induce hallucinations.
Many of the individuals who have reported these visions were not on medications and were, up to the moment of death, very coherent. Those who are on medications have also shared visions similar to those who are not on medications. Finally, well, alert, sober family members and friends of the dying have had DBVs. Along with this, Hospice workers and healthcare providers have also reported DBV experiences. In many situations, loved ones of the dying will have a visitation from the person who is passing at the moment of death.