Hallucinogen Overview

Dr. Basrai
hallucinogens

  • The term “hallucinogen” is used to describe substances that cause an alterations in sensory perception, mood, and cognition

  • Compounds range from plant- and animal- source compounds to synthetic drugs

  • Plant and animal compounds have been used in religious ituals for thousands of years

  • Although hallucinogens are used worldwide their prevalence is relatively low compared to other drugs of abuse

    • Approximately 7% of ED visits involving illicit drugs are due to Hallucinogens.

  • Males have higher rates of use compared to females

  • Age distribution:

    • Serotonergic hallucinogens (LSD) have higher rates of use in individuals under 21 years old.

    • PCP and ketamine have higher rates of use in patients over the age of 20.

  • Classical hallucinogens are divided into two chemical classes

    • Tryptamines- which are serotonin like in structure

      • LSD, Psilocybin, and DMT

    • Phenylethylamines- mediate effects via 5-HT2A receptor agonism or partial agonism.

      • Mescaline

 

Reference:

Marienfeld, Carla, editor. Absolute Addiction Psychiatry Review: An Essential Board Exam Study Guide. Springer Nature, 2020. Page 214-215

Xylazine
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