Concise Summary of Hallucinogens and Their Effects

Hallucinogens

• Alter thought processes, mood, and perceptions.
• Also known as psychedelics, originating in the 1950s as "mind expanding."
• Entheogenic: finding "god within";
• Entactogen: refers to MDMA.

Categories of Hallucinogens

1. Serotonin-like group: Includes LSD, psilocybin, peyote.
2. Belladonna alkaloids: Historically used in medicine.
3. Dissociative anesthetics: Commonly referred to as "horse tranquilizers."

Key Figures

• Dr. Timothy Leary: Led the LSD movement in the 1960s; famous quote "Turn on, Tune in and Drop out."
• Dr. Albert Hoffman: Discovered LSD on April 19, 1943, celebrated as "Bicycle Day."

Historical Context

• Ergotism (St. Anthony’s Fire): Caused hallucinations from consuming ergot-infected rye; utilized by midwives.
• Link to the Salem Witch Trials.

Legislation

• Controlled Substances Act of 1970: Established drug schedules based on abuse potential and medical use.
  • Schedule I: No medical use, high abuse potential (LSD, MDMA).
  • Schedule II: High abuse potential; includes drugs like cocaine and oxycodone.
  • Schedule III: Moderate to low abuse potential; includes codeine, anabolic steroids.

Effects and Experiences

• Routes of Administration: Common methods include teas, oral, and smoking.
• Lag Time: Varies by drug (e.g., LSD: 30-60 min; PCP: 15-30 min).
• Trip Duration: LSD: 4-6 hours; Psilocybin: 2-4 hours; PCP: 4-6 hours.

Neuroscience

• Default Mode Network: Brain's automatic software, impacts how adults process information.
• Long-Term Potentiation (LTP): Process of strengthening neural connections with repeated stimulation.
• Plasticity: Brain's ability to reorganize and adapt neural connections.

Psychedelics in Psychotherapy

• Can provide therapeutic benefits, opposite to PTSD effects.
• Should not be used recreationally; quality of experience crucial for therapeutic success.

Risks and Considerations

• Low risk of dependency and toxicity.
• Potential risks include harmful interactions with SSRIs, and serious physical changes (e.g., increased heart rate).
• Posthallucinogen Perception Disorder (PHPD): Flashbacks in frequent LSD users.

Conclusion

• Set and setting impact potential psychological experiences (good vs. bad trips).