Hallucinogens Ashleigh Pogue and Beth Hall Drug Overview

Hallucinogens Ashleigh Pogue and Beth Hall

Drug Overview LSD: D-lysergic acid diethylamide -Synthetic drug (chemically similar to serotonin) Mescaline: comes from peyote cactus (chemically similar to norepinephrine) Psilocybin: resembles serotonin and comes from mushrooms Phencyclidine: commonly referred to as PCP MDMA: commonly referred to as ecstasy -a synthetic amphetamine derivative

LSD Ø Ø Ø Discovered in 1938, was made from the fungus ergot One of the strongest mood-changing drugs. Sold as tablets, capsules, liquid, or on an absorbent paper Physical effects: dilated pupils, high body temperature, increased heart rate, causes perspiration, and raises your blood pressure Effects are usually felt within 30 minutes and lasts 12 hours. Not considered addictive because it does not produce compulsive drug seeking behavior. Most users stop over time on their own.

Mescaline Ø Has the same physical effects that LSD does, but also includes severe vomiting and nausea Ø It has been used in religious ceremonies by various Native American peoples for many centuries for its nauseating side effects. This was thought to be “cleansing” Ø Effects last about 12 hours Ø Produces rich visual hallucinations Ø It is also not physically addictive

Psilocybin It is ingested orally, usually through tea or other means to mask its bitter flavor (including chocolate covered mushrooms). Ø Physical effects appear in 20 minutes and last 6 hours Ø Has the same physical effects as the previous drugs, and also includes lack of coordination and muscle weakness. Ø Panic attacks and psychosis often occur because the user cannot distinguish between reality and fantasy. Ø

Phencyclidine Sold as tablets, capsules, or colored powder. And, it can be snorted, smoked, or eaten. Ø Used in the 1950’s as an intravenous anesthetic, but was discontinued. Ø It alters the effects of the neurotransmitter Glutamate. Ø It is also known as angel dust, ozone, wack, and rocket fuel. Ø It is addictive. Ø It is not often a street drug because it is too dangerous. Ø

MDMA Also known as Ecstasy It is chemically similar to methamphetamine and mescaline Ø It has a stimulant and psychedelic properties. Ø It is taken orally or as a capsule or tablet Ø Physical effects: hyperthermia, it causes cardiovascular, liver, and kidney failure, and death with the other symptoms that the previous drugs exhibit. Ø It is addictive and thought to be a neurotoxin. Ø It produces distortions in time perception. Ø Ø