Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
What is the most important information I should know about psychedelic drugs?
These substances are also known as hallucinogenic drugs or simply hallucinogens.
They come in different forms, ranging from chemicals such as LSD to plants like peyote.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
This article discusses psychedelic substances, theirhistory, and their different types.
It also covers their therapeutic potential and possible risks.
Psychedelics are not available for therapeutic purposes outside of limited research prefs.
Types of Psychedelic Drugs
The following are some of the most commonly used psychedelic substances.
Also known simply as acid, LSD was widely used in the 1960s until it was made illegal.
Use of LSD has continued, despite being a controlled substance.
The effects of DMT are much shorter than those of other psychedelics, typically lasting only an hour.
The effects of mescaline are similar to those of LSD.
Mushrooms carry particularly high risks given the toxicity of some varieties, which can even be lethal.
However, ecstasy can induce hallucinations and delusions.
Effects of Psychedelic Drugs
The effects of psychedelic drugs vary depending on the person.
Factors such as dosage, environment, and personality play a role in how psychedelics affect people.
LSD and peyote may also cause an increase in body temperature.
Effects of peyote include uncoordinated movements, excessive sweating, and flushing.
DMT can cause agitation and body/spatial distortions.
This can be risky due to the unpredictable effects that the drug may have.
Cross-tolerance to other substances can also occur.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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National Institute on Drug Abuse.How do hallucinogens work?.
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Washington, D.C.; 2022.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Is MDMA addictive?
National Institute on Drug Abuse.What are hallucinogens?
