Psychedelic drug: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|Overview of psychedelic drugs}}
'''Psychedelic drugs''', also known as '''hallucinogens''' or '''psychotomimetics''', are a class of [[psychoactive substance]]s that primarily alter perception, thought, and emotions, leading to experiences that are qualitatively different from ordinary consciousness. Psychedelic drugs have been used for thousands of years in various cultural, spiritual, and therapeutic contexts. They have recently garnered renewed interest for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
{{Psychedelics}}


'''Psychedelic drugs''' are a class of psychoactive substances that produce changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes. They are known for their ability to induce altered states of consciousness, often referred to as "trips." These substances have been used for centuries in various cultural and religious rituals and have gained attention in modern times for their potential therapeutic benefits.
== '''Classification''' ==


==History==
Psychedelic drugs can be classified into several categories based on their chemical structure and mechanism of action. Some of the most well-known classes of psychedelics include:
Psychedelic substances have been used by indigenous cultures for thousands of years. For example, [[psilocybin mushrooms]] have been used in [[Mesoamerican]] spiritual ceremonies, while [[ayahuasca]], a brew containing [[DMT]], has been used by indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin. In the 20th century, psychedelics gained popularity in Western culture, particularly during the 1960s counterculture movement.


==Types of Psychedelic Drugs==
* [[Lysergamides]]: This class includes substances such as [[LSD]] (lysergic acid diethylamide), which is derived from the ergot fungus.
Psychedelics can be classified into several categories based on their chemical structure and effects:
* [[Tryptamines]]: This class includes substances like [[psilocybin]] (found in "magic mushrooms"), [[DMT]] (dimethyltryptamine), and [[ayahuasca]] (a traditional Amazonian brew containing DMT and other psychoactive compounds).
* [[Phenethylamines]]: This class includes substances such as [[mescaline]] (found in peyote, San Pedro, and other cacti) and [[2C-B]].


===Tryptamines===
== '''Effects''' ==
[[Tryptamines]] include substances such as [[psilocybin]], found in certain mushrooms, and [[DMT]], a compound found in various plants and animals. These substances primarily affect the [[serotonin]] receptors in the brain.


===Phenethylamines===
The effects of psychedelic drugs can vary widely, depending on factors such as the specific substance, dosage, individual differences, and the context in which they are used. Common effects of psychedelics include:
[[Phenethylamines]] include [[mescaline]], found in the [[peyote]] cactus, and synthetic compounds like [[2C-B]]. These drugs also interact with serotonin receptors but have a different chemical structure than tryptamines.


===Lysergamides===
* [[Hallucinations]]: Altered perception of objects, sounds, and other sensory experiences
The most well-known lysergamide is [[LSD]] (lysergic acid diethylamide), which was first synthesized in 1938 by [[Albert Hofmann]]. LSD is known for its potent effects and long duration.
* [[Synesthesia]]: A blending or merging of sensory experiences, such as seeing sounds or tasting colors
* [[Ego dissolution]]: A sense of losing one's sense of self or identity
* [[Mystical experiences]]: Feelings of unity, oneness, or connection to a higher power
* Emotional intensification: Heightened feelings of joy, love, fear, or sadness
* Altered thought patterns: Changes in thinking, including increased creativity, insight, or introspection


==Mechanism of Action==
== '''Risks and Safety''' ==
Psychedelics primarily act on the [[serotonin receptor|5-HT2A receptors]] in the brain, leading to increased neural connectivity and altered sensory perception. This receptor activation is thought to be responsible for the characteristic visual and auditory hallucinations associated with these drugs.


==Effects==
While many people have positive and even therapeutic experiences with psychedelic drugs, there are also potential risks and dangers associated with their use. Some of the risks of using psychedelics include:
The effects of psychedelic drugs can vary widely depending on the substance, dosage, and individual. Common effects include:
* Altered perception of time and space
* Visual and auditory hallucinations
* Enhanced introspection and emotional experiences
* Synesthesia, where senses become intertwined


==Therapeutic Uses==
* [[Bad trips]]: Negative, frightening, or distressing experiences that can lead to lasting psychological trauma
Recent research has explored the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics in treating various mental health conditions, such as:
* [[Psychosis]]: In some cases, especially in individuals with a history of mental health issues, psychedelics may trigger or exacerbate psychotic symptoms
* [[Depression]]
* [[HPPD]] (Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder): A rare but potentially distressing condition characterized by lingering visual disturbances or "flashbacks" after using psychedelics
* [[Anxiety]]
* [[Physical risks]]: While most psychedelics have a relatively low risk of physical harm, some substances can cause adverse physical reactions, such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, or body temperature
* [[Post-traumatic stress disorder]] (PTSD)
* [[Addiction]]


Studies have shown that psychedelics can promote neuroplasticity and help patients gain new perspectives on their conditions.
== '''Therapeutic Potential''' ==


==Legal Status==
Recent research has shown promise in the potential therapeutic use of psychedelic drugs in controlled, clinical settings. Some areas of investigation include:
The legal status of psychedelic drugs varies worldwide. Many are classified as [[Schedule I drugs]] in the United States, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, some countries and states have begun to decriminalize or legalize certain psychedelics for medical or recreational use.


==Safety and Risks==
* [[Psilocybin therapy]] for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and end-of-life distress
While psychedelics are generally considered to have a low potential for addiction, they can pose risks, particularly in unsupervised settings. Potential risks include:
* [[MDMA-assisted psychotherapy]] for PTSD
* Psychological distress or "bad trips"
* [[Ketamine]] for depression and suicidal ideation
* Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD)
* [[Ayahuasca]] for addiction and mood disorders
* Risk of injury due to impaired judgment


==Related pages==
== '''Legal Status''' ==
 
The legal status of psychedelic drugs varies widely depending on the specific substance and jurisdiction. Many psychedelics, such as [[LSD]] and [[psilocybin]], are classified as [[Schedule I]] controlled substances in the United States and other countries, meaning they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, recent research and advocacy efforts have led to changes in some jurisdictions, such as:
 
* The decriminalization of psilocybin mushrooms in Denver, Colorado, and Oakland, California
* The legalization of psilocybin therapy in Oregon
* The decriminalization of personal possession and use of all psychedelics in Washington, D.C.
 
== '''Cultural and Historical Context''' ==
 
Psychedelic drugs have a long history of use in various cultural and spiritual contexts around the world, such as:
* The use of [[peyote]] by indigenous peoples of North America for spiritual and healing purposes
* The use of [[ayahuasca]] by indigenous Amazonian cultures for healing and spiritual growth
* The Eleusinian Mysteries, ancient Greek religious rites involving the consumption of a psychoactive substance, possibly an ergot-based compound
* In the mid-20th century, psychedelics gained popularity in Western culture, particularly during the [[counterculture movement]] of the 1960s, when substances like LSD and psilocybin became associated with the anti-establishment movement, music, and art. This period also saw the emergence of prominent figures in the field of psychedelic research, such as [[Timothy Leary]] and [[Terence McKenna]].
 
== '''See Also''' ==
 
* [[Entheogen]]
* [[Microdosing]]
* [[Psychedelic therapy]]
* [[Psychedelic therapy]]
* [[Entheogen]]
== '''References''' ==
* [[Hallucinogen]]
<references />
* [[Serotonin receptor]]
== '''Further Reading''' ==
 
* Pollan, Michael. ''How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence.'' Penguin Press, 2018.
* Huxley, Aldous. ''The Doors of Perception and Heaven and Hell.'' Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2009.
 
== '''External Links''' ==


[[Category:Psychedelic drugs]]
* [https://www.erowid.org/ Erowid] - A comprehensive online resource for information on psychoactive substances, including psychedelics
* [https://www.maps.org/ Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)] - A non-profit research and educational organization dedicated to the study of the medical, scientific, and cultural benefits of psychedelics and other related substances
{{stub}}
{{Major Drug Groups}}
{{Drug use}}
{{Hallucinogens}}
{{Serotonin receptor modulators}}
[[Category:Drug classes defined by psychological effects]]
[[Category:5-HT2A agonists]]
[[Category:Hallucinations]]
[[Category:Psychedelic drugs| ]]
<gallery>
File:Synthetic_mescaline_powder_i2001e0151_ccby3.jpg|Psychedelic drug
File:5ht2a.jpg|Psychedelic drug
File:Three_psychedelic_drugs.png|Psychedelic drug
File:N,N-DMT_Freebase_and_Vape_cartridge.jpg|Psychedelic drug
File:Ayahuasca_prep.JPG|Psychedelic drug
File:Psilocybe_Mushrooms_statues.jpg|Psychedelic drug
File:Echinopsis_pachanoi_en_Huaraz.jpg|Psychedelic drug
File:DMT.svg|Psychedelic drug
File:Mescaline_Structural_Formula.svg|Psychedelic drug
File:Lysergsäurediethylamid_(LSD).svg|Psychedelic drug
File:Johns_Hopkins_psilocybin_session_room-SessionRm_2176x.jpg|Psychedelic drug
File:Jefferson_Airplane_photo_1967.JPG|Psychedelic drug
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 18:52, 18 February 2025

Psychedelic drugs, also known as hallucinogens or psychotomimetics, are a class of psychoactive substances that primarily alter perception, thought, and emotions, leading to experiences that are qualitatively different from ordinary consciousness. Psychedelic drugs have been used for thousands of years in various cultural, spiritual, and therapeutic contexts. They have recently garnered renewed interest for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Classification[edit]

Psychedelic drugs can be classified into several categories based on their chemical structure and mechanism of action. Some of the most well-known classes of psychedelics include:

  • Lysergamides: This class includes substances such as LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), which is derived from the ergot fungus.
  • Tryptamines: This class includes substances like psilocybin (found in "magic mushrooms"), DMT (dimethyltryptamine), and ayahuasca (a traditional Amazonian brew containing DMT and other psychoactive compounds).
  • Phenethylamines: This class includes substances such as mescaline (found in peyote, San Pedro, and other cacti) and 2C-B.

Effects[edit]

The effects of psychedelic drugs can vary widely, depending on factors such as the specific substance, dosage, individual differences, and the context in which they are used. Common effects of psychedelics include:

  • Hallucinations: Altered perception of objects, sounds, and other sensory experiences
  • Synesthesia: A blending or merging of sensory experiences, such as seeing sounds or tasting colors
  • Ego dissolution: A sense of losing one's sense of self or identity
  • Mystical experiences: Feelings of unity, oneness, or connection to a higher power
  • Emotional intensification: Heightened feelings of joy, love, fear, or sadness
  • Altered thought patterns: Changes in thinking, including increased creativity, insight, or introspection

Risks and Safety[edit]

While many people have positive and even therapeutic experiences with psychedelic drugs, there are also potential risks and dangers associated with their use. Some of the risks of using psychedelics include:

  • Bad trips: Negative, frightening, or distressing experiences that can lead to lasting psychological trauma
  • Psychosis: In some cases, especially in individuals with a history of mental health issues, psychedelics may trigger or exacerbate psychotic symptoms
  • HPPD (Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder): A rare but potentially distressing condition characterized by lingering visual disturbances or "flashbacks" after using psychedelics
  • Physical risks: While most psychedelics have a relatively low risk of physical harm, some substances can cause adverse physical reactions, such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, or body temperature

Therapeutic Potential[edit]

Recent research has shown promise in the potential therapeutic use of psychedelic drugs in controlled, clinical settings. Some areas of investigation include:

Legal Status[edit]

The legal status of psychedelic drugs varies widely depending on the specific substance and jurisdiction. Many psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin, are classified as Schedule I controlled substances in the United States and other countries, meaning they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, recent research and advocacy efforts have led to changes in some jurisdictions, such as:

  • The decriminalization of psilocybin mushrooms in Denver, Colorado, and Oakland, California
  • The legalization of psilocybin therapy in Oregon
  • The decriminalization of personal possession and use of all psychedelics in Washington, D.C.

Cultural and Historical Context[edit]

Psychedelic drugs have a long history of use in various cultural and spiritual contexts around the world, such as:

  • The use of peyote by indigenous peoples of North America for spiritual and healing purposes
  • The use of ayahuasca by indigenous Amazonian cultures for healing and spiritual growth
  • The Eleusinian Mysteries, ancient Greek religious rites involving the consumption of a psychoactive substance, possibly an ergot-based compound
  • In the mid-20th century, psychedelics gained popularity in Western culture, particularly during the counterculture movement of the 1960s, when substances like LSD and psilocybin became associated with the anti-establishment movement, music, and art. This period also saw the emergence of prominent figures in the field of psychedelic research, such as Timothy Leary and Terence McKenna.

See Also[edit]

References[edit]

<references />

Further Reading[edit]

  • Pollan, Michael. How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence. Penguin Press, 2018.
  • Huxley, Aldous. The Doors of Perception and Heaven and Hell. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2009.

External Links[edit]

  • Erowid - A comprehensive online resource for information on psychoactive substances, including psychedelics
  • Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) - A non-profit research and educational organization dedicated to the study of the medical, scientific, and cultural benefits of psychedelics and other related substances
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Major chemical drug groups
Gastrointestinal tract/
metabolism (A)
Blood and blood
forming organs (B)
Cardiovascular
system (C)
Skin (D)
Genitourinary
system (G)


Hallucinogens
Psychedelics
(5-HT2A
agonists)
Benzofurans
Lyserg‐
amides
Phenethyl‐
amines
2C-x
* 2C-B


25x-NBx
25x-NMx
N-(2C)-fentanyl
3C-x
4C-x
DOx
Piperazines
Tryptamines
Dissociatives
(NMDAR
antagonists)
Deliriants
(mAChR
antagonists)
Others
Cannabinoids
(CB1 agonists)
Natural
Synthetic
AM-x
CP x
HU-x
JWH-x
Misc. designer cannabinoids
D2 agonists
GABAA
enhancers
Inhalants
(Mixed MOA)
κOR agonists


Serotonin receptor modulators
5-HT1
5-HT2
5-HT3–7
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