Hallucinogens
OpenAlex – March 11, 2022
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Hallucinogens profoundly alter perception by targeting specific brain chemistry. Classic psychedelics like Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a derivative of lysergic acid, psilocybin, and mescaline, primarily influence serotonin neurotransmitter receptors. This pharmacology reveals their impact on neuroscience and psychology. Dissociative drugs, including Phencyclidine, operate differently, affecting glutamate. Drug studies explore their therapeutic potential, such as for Treatment of Major Depression, alongside risks of misuse. Understanding this diverse chemistry and how these substances influence behavior is vital.
Abstract
This chapter highlights the similarities in chemical structure and physiologic effects of hallucinogens, as well as their metabolism, therapeutic uses and potential for misuse or abuse. Special attention is given to the testing process, with an emphasis on interpretation of test results. Hallucinogens are drugs that alter an individual's perception of reality. The classic hallucinogens include lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, and mescaline. LSD is a derivative of lysergic acid, an alkaloid that occurs naturally in the fungus Clavicepspurpurea . LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline exert their perception-altering effects by acting on neural circuits in the brain that use serotonin as the neurotransmitter. Phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine produce their effects by interfering with the activity of the neurotransmitter glutamate. PCP is hydroxylated to form inactive metabolites, which are then conjugated to glucuronic acid and excreted in urine. The chapter provides dissociative drugs phencyclidine and ketamine.