Tag: hallucinogenic drugs

There are several reasons that can lead a person to want to try hallucinogenic or psychedelic drugs, and some of them have become a kind of symbol of an era, but the truth is that they are still quite dangerous for health. Hallucinogenic drugs are psychoactive substances that, if taken, influence the perception of reality, emotions, and thoughts of those who consume them.

Hallucinogenic drugs are capable of modifying sensations and senses and can cause hallucinations and sensory disturbances. Hallucinogenic drugs mainly affect the central nervous system (CNS), where the brain is located.

Upon entering neurons, these substances primarily alter the release and function of the neurotransmitter known as serotonin, a chemical involved in sensory perception, pleasure, hunger, temperature, conductive regulation, muscle control, and mood. Serotonin is not only found in the brain. It is also found throughout the spinal cord. Here are some popular hallucinogenic drugs.

LSD

This is undoubtedly the best-known and most powerful hallucinogenic drug. LSD acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, known as 5-HT, by disrupting serotonin reception in certain areas of the nervous system. The effects of LSD are quite unpredictable in terms of experience but tend to be severe hallucinations, distortion or loss of reality, and sudden mood swings. Its duration is generally quite long. A normal dose could last around 10 hours.

Psilocybin or Hallucinogenic Mushrooms

Hallucinogenic mushrooms or “magic mushrooms” are used as recreational and spiritual drugs and their effects come from the substance known as psilocybin. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring alkaloid compound found in a wide variety of mushrooms and is the substance that will then be processed in the liver until it is derived from psilocin, the psychoactive component that causes psychedelic effects by altering the presence of serotonin.

Ecstasy or MDMA

Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a drug in the amphetamine family that has been artificially created and is usually taken in pill form. Since it also acts as a mental stimulant, it is one of the most popular hallucinogens and is mostly consumed at parties and social events.

Among the effects of ecstasy, in addition to hallucinations and sensory disturbances that are mental stimulants, it seems to give effects such as increased attention, energy, warmth, and closer connections with others, adding a great sense of pleasure. However, these seemingly positive effects are only temporary and can lead to long-term cognitive decline.…