Hallucinogens

What they are

Hallucinogenic substances are characterized by their ability to cause changes in a persons’ sense of reality. Those using hallucinogenic drugs often see images, hear sounds, and feel sensations that seem real but that do not exist.

Types Of Hallucinogens

LSD is one of the major hallucinogenic drugs on the market today and is commonly referred to as acid. It was discovered in 1938 and is manufactured from lysergic acid. It is most well known for its psychological effects which can include the following:

• Closed and open eye visuals
• A sense of time distortion
• Profound cognitive shifts

Physical Symptoms Reported

• Uterine contractions
• Hypothermia
• Fever
• Elevated blood sugar
• Increased heart rate
• Jaw clenching
• Pupil dilation
• Tremors

PCP was developed in the 1950's as an intravenous anesthetic but discontinued in 1965 because of the effects it was having on patients. The drug is now being produced illegally in laboratories. It is produced as a while crystalline powder that is soluble in water or alcohol. PCP has a distinctive chemical taste and can be mixed easily. It can be found on the streets in many forms-such as tablets, colored powders, and capsules.

Physical Effects of PCP

• Numbness of the extremities
• Staggering, unsteady gait, slurred speech
• Bloodshot eyes, loss of balance
• Convulsions

Psychological Side Effects

• Severe changes in body image
• Loss of ego boundaries
• Depersonalization
• Hallucinations
• Euphoria