Hallucinogen Use and Misuse in Older Adults.
Wm Maurice Redden, Saif-ur-rahman Paracha, Quratulanne Sheheryar
Clinics in geriatric medicine February 1, 2022 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2021.07.007 via PubMed
Summary
Hallucinogens, including LSD and PCP, have been used for centuries but have seen limited research due to legal restrictions. While these substances can cause hallucinations and various symptoms, there is a growing interest in understanding their long-term effects and potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in the context of misuse rather than abuse.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | There is renewed interest in hallucinogens that may lead to potential therapeutic options despite their historical misuse. |
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Abstract
Hallucinogens, or psychedelics, are substances/drugs that have been used for over a millennium. The most well known are LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, and PCP. These substances may induce hallucinations as well as cause somatic and psychological symptoms. Because of the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, there has been very little research done to determine the long-term consequences or perhaps potential benefit of misuse and abuse of hallucinogens. Typically, these drugs are not abused but more often misused. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in these compounds, which may lead to possible therapeutic options.