Patterns of Hallucinogenic Drug Abuse
JAMA – January 11, 1965
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Renewed attention to **hallucinogen** **drugs** like LSD and psilocybin is reshaping **Medicine**. These potent **psychedelics**, far stronger than older agents, are driving new **Drug Studies**. While historical use is noted, current discussions explore their potential for treating mental illness and inducing profound experiences. Understanding their **Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior** is crucial. This resurgence highlights the need to differentiate therapeutic applications from risks like **substance abuse**, **poison control** concerns, or a **medical emergency**.
Abstract
The use of hallucinogenic (psychotomimetic, dysleptic, psychedelic) substances to produce altered states of consciousness is not new,1-3but recently there has been increased interest and publicity given these agents. This renewed attention has been spurred by the discovery of several new substances, such as d-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, and psilocin, which have potencies far greater than the older agents (peyote, mescaline, teonanacatl, ololiuqui). These drugs have captured the imagination of many people who have speculated on their application in many different areas. Anthropologists4, 5have described the socially sanctioned use of some of these agents in "primitive cultures"; novelists6have conceived of their role in utopian societies; and physicians have espoused their usefulness in treating mental illness7and for the production of "model psychoses." Others have proposed or described their use as educational tools3and for inducing religious "mystical" experiences.8-10Still others have commented on