Hallucinogens and Their Effects

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to hallucinogens, their classifications, effects, and pharmacology, to aid in understanding and exam preparation.

Hallucinogens

A broad category of drugs that produce hallucinations, primarily visual distortions in perception.

Phantastica

A subtype of hallucinogens that includes psychedelics such as LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin.

Deliriants

A type of hallucinogen where the main experience is one of dissociation, derealization, or depersonalization.

LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)

A highly potent synthetic hallucinogen first discovered in the 1930's, prominent in the 1960's.

Psilocybin

An active compound found in magic mushrooms, historically used for religious reasons, produces effects similar to LSD.

DMT (Dimethyltryptamine)

A naturally occurring substance that, when orally consumed, is not effective due to rapid breakdown by enzymes.

Ayahuasca

A brewed substance that includes DMT and is used for healing and religious practices.

MDMA (Ecstasy)

A synthetic amphetamine with hallucinogenic properties that acts as both a stimulant and a psychedelic.

PCP (Phencyclidine)

Known as angel dust, it induces dissociation and was historically used as a surgical anesthetic.

Ketamine

A deliriant that has potential antidepressant effects and produces dissociative states.

Psilocybin Effects

Producing similar effects to LSD, with lower potency, and used historically for medical and ceremonial purposes.

Mescaline

Derived from cacti, historically used by indigenous peoples for ceremonial and healing purposes.

Pharmacokinetics

The study of how drugs move through the body, from absorption to elimination.

Serotonin 2A Receptors

Brain receptors that hallucinogens primarily interact with to produce their effects.

Synesthesia

A perceptual phenomenon where one sense is simultaneously perceived as if by one or more additional senses.

Tolerance

The phenomenon where a person needs to increase their drug dose to achieve the same effects due to receptor downregulation.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Physical symptoms that can be mild, like headaches or cravings, most prominently seen with PCP.

Flashbacks

Experiencing symptoms of intoxication long after drug effects have worn off, associated with hallucinogen use.

Dependence

A rarely developed condition in hallucinogens, which may lead to psychological dependence through repeated use.

Mood Enhancement

One of the main motives for drug use, including hallucinogens.

Social Motives

Reasons for drug use based on social interactions and group dynamics.

Cultural Practices

Unique socio-cultural influences that may dictate the use of drugs such as MDMA.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers in the brain, with serotonin being a major player in hallucinogenic effects.

Hallucinogen Persisting Perceptual Disorder (HPPD)

A condition involving persistent visual disturbances experienced by regular hallucinogen users.

Psychological Effects

The cognitive and emotional changes brought about by hallucinogens, often varying by individual and context.

Environmental Processes

External conditions that can significantly influence the effects experienced by hallucinogen users.

Compulsive Use

Repeated drug use that can lead to problematic behavior and psychological dependence.

Euphoric Effects

The intense feelings of happiness, often experienced during MDMA use.

Ayahuasca Components

Contains DMT and an MAO inhibitor, enabling DMT to be effective when brewed.

Indigenous Use of Hallucinogens

Historical context of hallucinogen use by indigenous populations for religious and healing practices.

Interaction with Receptors

The specifics of how hallucinogens bind with serotonin and other neurotransmitter receptors to produce effects.