Hallucinogens
Drugs are considered hallucinogens
if they are able to produce hallucinations in a person’s
mind. A hallucination can be defined as a false interpretation
or image through any of the various senses. Most commonly hallucinogens
produce visual and auditory hallucinations where users hear or
see things that do not really exist. These drugs, like all other
illicit drugs, are mood- and mind- altering chemicals that, over
time, can change a person’s mental and physical capacities.
Hallucinogens exist naturally and they can also be produced synthetically.
Some of the most common hallucinogens
include LSD, also known as acid, mushrooms, PCP, and mescaline.
There are thousands of synthetically produced hallucinogens which
can cause physical and mental problems even if only used once.
Other drugs that are not usually considered hallucinogens, such
as marijuana and ecstasy can produce hallucinations if taken in
large enough doses.
Immediate affects of hallucinogens
include distortion in perception, extraordinary sensory experiences,
not being able to differentiate one sense from another, dilation
of pupils, distortions in space and time, and problems with coordination.
Other more uncomfortable side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness,
changes in blood pressure and body temperature, nausea, anxiety
and paranoia. These symptoms are dependent on the person as well
as the type and amount of the drug taken.
People who use LSD often experience
what is commonly referred to as a “bad trip”. This
side effect means that a person will have negative emotions and
experiences associated with hallucinogens. In some cases the trip
is so bad that a person needs medical attention. The person’s
sensory functions are overloaded as a result of using hallucinogens
and the mind cannot cope with the feelings and thoughts produced.
Side effects such as anxiety can result in intense panic attacks
which the user has no control over.
If a person uses hallucinogens
over an extended period of time, or takes too much in some instances,
there are very dangerous long-term effects that may occur. Hallucinogen
users often report that they have flashbacks from time to time,
meaning the relive an experience they had on the drug. Theses
types of occurrences may only happen once, however they can happen
months, or even years after the drug is taken. In addition hallucinogens
can also increase the risk of developing mental problems as well
as permanent damage to memory and concentration. Hallucinogens
are considered addictive drugs because a tolerance is produced
after a short period of use. A person may become psychologically
dependent on hallucinogens, in which case substance abuse treatment
is recommended.
