Chemical Reactivity Parameters to Analyze Psychedelics: How Do We Explain the Potency of the Drugs?
ACS omega September 24, 2024 Ana Martínez, Alexis Caballero, Rodrigo Ramírez et al.
Psychedelics alter thoughts, feelings, and perceptions of reality, with lysergic acid diethylamide being the most potent. This investigation analyzed 27 serotonergic psychedelic molecules, which act as serotonin agonists. The electron acceptance capacity of these compounds correlates with their potency: the best electron acceptor is the most potent drug. Additionally, molecules with greater global softness, indicating higher polarizability, also show greater potency. These findings advance understanding of the mechanism of action of psychotropic drugs.