Hallucinogen

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Hallucinogen

Hallucinogen (/həˈluːsɪnədʒən/; from the Latin hallucinari, meaning "to wander in the mind") is a broad classification for a range of psychoactive substances that induce perceptual and cognitive alterations often described as causing hallucinations.

Etymology

The term "hallucinogen" is derived from the Latin hallucinari, meaning "to wander in the mind". It was first used in the early 20th century to describe substances that induce hallucinations.

Types of Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens can be categorized into three main types:

  • Psychedelics: These substances, such as LSD and psilocybin, cause profound alterations in perception, mood, and cognitive processes.
  • Dissociatives: These substances, such as ketamine and PCP, cause a sense of detachment or dissociation from the physical body and the external world.
  • Deliriants: These substances, such as datura and belladonna, induce a state of delirium, characterized by extreme confusion and an inability to control one's actions.

Effects of Hallucinogens

The effects of hallucinogens can vary widely depending on the specific substance, the dose, the user's individual physiology, and the context in which the substance is used. Common effects can include perceptual distortions, changes in thought processes, and emotional shifts. Some users may also experience negative effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and dangerous behavior.

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