...

Hallucinogens Explained: What to Know About Psychedelic Drugs

Hallucinogens can temporarily alter a person’s mood, thoughts, and perceptions. Among other health effects and safety concerns, individuals who use these substances report feeling intense emotions ranging from bliss to fear and encountering profound changes in how they perceive reality. Continue reading more about the uses and status of hallucinogens in the US and why they are linked to substance use disorders.

(844) 597-1011

By We Level Up | Author Kate Byrd | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Hallucinogens are a class of psychoactive substances that drastically alter perception. These drugs can distort reality, making users see, hear, or feel things that aren’t real.

When someone uses a hallucinogen, it disrupts the brain’s normal chemical balance. This disruption can lead to hallucinations, sensory experiences that seem real but aren’t. Common types of hallucinogens include LSD, psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), mescaline (found in peyote cactus), and DMT.

Key Takeaways

  • Hallucinogens are psychoactive substances that alter perception, thoughts, and feelings, causing users to see, hear, or feel things that aren’t real.
  • Common types of hallucinogens include LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), mescaline (peyote), DMT, PCP, and ketamine.
  • While not physically addictive, hallucinogens can lead to tolerance and psychological dependence with regular use.
  • Short-term effects of hallucinogens include altered perceptions, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, nausea, and intense emotional experiences, which can be unpredictable and overwhelming.
  • Long-term risks of hallucinogen use include persistent psychosis, HPPD (flashbacks), exacerbation of mental health issues, cognitive impairments, and legal consequences.

What are Hallucinogens?

Hallucinogens are psychoactive drugs that can alter a person’s perception, mood, and thought processes. Psychoactive drugs influence the brain and alter a person’s mood, perception, cognition, or behavior. Hallucinogens specifically alter a person’s perception and can cause them to experience sensory distortions, such as hearing or seeing things that, for other people, are not present.

The psychological effects of hallucinogens affect a person’s mood, causing euphoria, fear, or anxiety. The effects of hallucinogens on the brain are primarily due to their interaction with serotonin receptors, which significantly regulate mood, perception, and cognition. However, the exact mechanisms by which hallucinogens produce their effects are not fully understood and are subject to ongoing research. Nevertheless, hallucinogens can cause intense, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous effects on a person’s mental and physical health. Without proper guidance, individuals may not know how to navigate the experience or how to manage any negative effects of hallucinogens that may arise.

Types of Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens come in various forms, each with mind and body effects. Here are some common types.

  • LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide): A powerful synthetic hallucinogen known for its intense visual and auditory distortions.
  • Psilocybin: The active ingredient in “magic mushrooms,” psilocybin produces altered states of consciousness and spiritual experiences.
  • Mescaline: Found in peyote cactus, mescaline induces vivid hallucinations and heightened sensory perception.
  • DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): A short-acting but intense hallucinogen that occurs naturally in some plants and animals, can be produced synthetically.
  • PCP (Phencyclidine): Originally developed as an anesthetic, PCP causes dissociative and hallucinogenic effects at high doses.
  • Ketamine: A dissociative anesthetic that can induce out-of-body experiences and distort perceptions of reality.
Abstract visualization of hallucinogenic effects with vibrant patterns

Hallucinogens Street Names

Hallucinogens can be synthetically produced in illegal laboratories or are found naturally in plants. [1] Some of the most common hallucinogens street names are the following:

  • Acid.
  • Blotter.
  • Cubes.
  • Fry.
  • Mind Candy.
  • Mushrooms.
  • Shrooms.
  • Special K.
  • STP.
  • X.
  • XTC.

Learn More:

Side Effects of Hallucinogen Use

Hallucinogenic drugs can cause a variety of physical and mental side effects. 

Physically, they can raise heart rate and blood pressure, increase body temperature, and cause excessive sweating. Nausea, loss of appetite, sleep problems, and dry mouth are common. Users may also experience dizziness, weakness, and tremors. Additionally, these drugs can distort perceptions of time and space, making it difficult to concentrate.

Psychologically, hallucinogens can have unpredictable and intense effects. Users may experience “bad trips” characterized by anxiety, paranoia, confusion, and panic attacks. Mood swings, fear of losing control, and distressing thoughts are common. Existing mental health conditions, such as depression or schizophrenia, may worsen. In some cases, individuals may develop HPPD, where hallucinations and visual disturbances continue long after drug use.

Hallucinogens can impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents and risky behaviors. Users may act erratically, endangering themselves and others. Driving or operating machinery while under the influence is extremely dangerous. Altered pain perception can lead to injuries.

Frequent use of hallucinogens can lead to persistent psychosis and visual disturbances. Users may struggle with mood disorders, disorganized thinking, and paranoia. Memory problems and difficulty processing emotions may also arise. Repeated exposure to hallucinogens can alter brain chemistry and structure, potentially leading to psychological dependence.

If you experience severe reactions like seizures, high fever, or uncontrollable behavior, seek immediate medical attention. Be aware of potential interactions between hallucinogens and medications or underlying health conditions.

If you experience severe reactions like seizures, high fever, or uncontrollable behavior, seek immediate medical attention. Be aware of potential interactions with medications and health conditions. 

Are Hallucinogens Addictive?

Hallucinogens aren’t considered addictive in the traditional sense. They don’t cause the same compulsive drug-seeking behavior associated with substances like opioids or cocaine. However, regular use of hallucinogens can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects.

Psychological dependence may also develop with repeated use. Some users find the experiences so profound that they feel compelled to continue using hallucinogens. This can interfere with daily life and responsibilities.

While hallucinogens may not cause physical dependence, they pose significant psychological risks. Hallucinogen use can worsen existing mental health conditions and may trigger psychosis, anxiety, or depression in vulnerable individuals. Frequent use can lead to tolerance and a desire to continue using despite negative consequences. This can still lead to hallucinogen misuse and abuse. Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) can occur days or even years after use. This condition is characterized by the re-experiencing of drug effects without further use and can be unpredictable and distressing.

Definition of Hallucinogens Drug Facts

Definition of Hallucinogenic Drugs

The hallucinogens psychology definition, or psychedelics, is a class of psychoactive substances that can cause profound alterations in a person’s perception, thoughts, and feelings.

These drugs can produce sensory experiences that seem real but are not based on reality. They can also change the mood, thought patterns, and sensory perception. Examples of hallucinogenic drugs include LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, mescaline, and DMT. The hallucinogenic meaning and the effects of these drugs can vary depending on the specific drug, the dose taken, the individual’s physiology, and the setting in which the drug is used.

Hallucinogens Effects on Brain

Hallucinogenic substances can profoundly affect the brain, altering a person’s perception, mood, and thought patterns. These effects are primarily due to the substances’ ability to interact with particular brain receptors, such as the serotonin 2A receptor. When a hallucinogenic substance is ingested, it can lead to changes in the activity and connectivity of various brain regions, including those involved in perception, mood regulation, and self-awareness. These changes can result in the following:

  • Altered sensory experiences.
  • Seeing vivid colors or patterns.
  • Feeling a sense of unity with one’s surroundings or other people.
  • Experiencing a distorted sense of time.
  • Depending on the specific substance and individual factors, hallucinogens can also affect mood, producing euphoria, anxiety, or paranoia.
  • Some substances can change thought patterns, such as an altered sense of self or a heightened sense of spirituality.

Is Weed Hallucinogenic?

Is weed a hallucinogenic drug? While some people may experience mild perceptual changes or altered sensory experiences after using marijuana (also known as weed or cannabis), it is generally not considered hallucinogenic. The primary psychoactive compound in marijuana is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which primarily interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in the brain rather than the serotonin receptors that are more commonly associated with hallucinogenic effects.

However, marijuana can still significantly affect the brain and behavior, including mood, perception, and cognition changes. Depending on the dose, potency, and individual factors, these effects can vary and may be more pronounced in some people than others.

Moreover, some strains of marijuana or cannabis products may be specifically bred or formulated to contain higher levels of THC or other compounds that can produce more pronounced perceptual or sensory changes. Nevertheless, even in these cases, marijuana is generally not considered hallucinogenic.

Psychosis Weed

Some evidence suggests that marijuana use may be linked to an increased risk of psychosis, particularly in individuals who are already at risk for developing psychotic disorders or have a history of such conditions in their family.

Hallucinogens Legality

Many hallucinogens are Schedule 1 under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a high potential for substance use disorders, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the US, and a lack of acknowledged safety for use under medical supervision.

Scientists and medical professionals are actively researching the hallucinogens drugs list and substances to understand better their effects on the brain and their potential therapeutic uses. Research in this area and the effects of hallucinogens on gene expression have been ongoing for several decades. For instance, recent studies have shown promising results in using psilocybin to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction.

Some studies have also investigated the potential use of these substances to enhance creativity, increase spirituality, and improve well-being in healthy individuals.

However, while these substances may have potential therapeutic benefits, they can also have significant risks, mainly when used in uncontrolled or unsupervised settings. Researchers continue to study these substances to understand their effects better and to develop safe and effective treatment approaches.

Hallucinogenic Plants

When ingested or consumed, many hallucinogenic herbs contain naturally occurring compounds that can produce hallucinogenic effects. In our vast wild land, which of these spices is considered a hallucinogenic? And what are the most potent hallucinogens? Some of the most well-known natural plant hallucinogens examples include the following:

  • Psilocybin Mushrooms: The top of this hallucinogens list is “magic mushroom.” The Psilocybe genus contains psilocybin and psilocin, which can produce vivid sensory experiences and altered states of consciousness.
  • Peyote Cactus: The peyote cactus contains mescaline, which can produce hallucinations and altered sensory experiences. Peyote plants have more mescaline by weight than San Pedro cactus hallucinogenic properties.
  • Ayahuasca Vine: Ayahuasca is a plant mixture used in traditional South American shamanic practices that contain the hallucinogenic compound DMT (dimethyltryptamine).
  • Salvia Divinorum: This plant contains salvinorin A, which can produce intense and often unsettling salvia hallucinogenic effects, hallucinations, and sensory distortions.
  • Datura: Plants in the Datura genus contain tropane alkaloids like hyoscyamine and scopolamine, which can produce datura hallucinogenic effects, delirium, and other psychoactive effects.
Educational workshop on understanding the risks associated with hallucinogens

The following hallucinogens natural plants are not widely known as substances of abuse but can also have potent hallucinogenic effects. Nevertheless, other plants in this list are still under study. Some of the hallucinogenic flowers and their products are the following:

  • Angel Trumpet Hallucinogenic Effects.
    Angel’s trumpet (also known as Brugmansia) contains several alkaloids that can produce psychoactive effects, including hallucinations and delirium. These alkaloids, which include scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine, can produce intense sensory distortions and altered states of consciousness when ingested or otherwise consumed. The effects of an angel’s trumpet can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, mainly when consumed in high doses or without proper preparation. Ingesting the plant can cause symptoms such as dilated pupils, dry mouth, increased heart rate, confusion, agitation, severe cases, seizures, coma, or death.
  • Nutmeg Hallucinogenic Effects.
    Nutmeg is sometimes cited as a potential hallucinogenic, as it has myristicin, structurally similar to other hallucinogenic compounds like mescaline and MDMA. However, while nutmeg can produce psychoactive effects, these effects are generally not considered true hallucinations. When consumed in large doses, nutmeg can have various symptoms, including dizziness, nausea, confusion, and an altered sense of time perception.
  • Mugwort Hallucinogenic Effects.
    Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a plant used for centuries in traditional medicine and cultural practices, particularly in Asia and Europe. While some believe that mugwort has hallucinogenic properties, limited scientific evidence supports this claim.

The following are not included on the hallucinogenic plants list, but many people search for their hallucinogenic effects. This list of hallucinogenic plants and natural hallucinogenic substances is still being researched.

Furthermore, several species of hallucinogenic frogs are known to produce psychoactive compounds, some of which can have hallucinations and altered states of consciousness in humans.

Many look for hallucinogenic spinach effects, but no evidence suggests that spinach (or any other typical food) has hallucinogenic properties. The culprit of this trend is tainting spinach with weeds.

“Cow pasture hallucinogenic mushroom” is a colloquial term that refers to several species of mushrooms commonly found growing in fields and pastures, including the Psilocybe Cubensis mushroom. Psilocybe Cubensis is a well-known hallucinogenic mushroom with psychoactive psilocybin and psilocin compounds, which can produce intense hallucinations and transitioned states of consciousness when ingested.

There are also reported cases of hallucinogenic honey from the Himalayas. Hallucinogenic honey, or “mad honey,” contains grayanotoxins, neurotoxic substances produced by certain plants, including the rhododendron species. When bees collect nectar from these plants, the grayanotoxins can be transferred to the honey, making psychoactive effects in humans when consumed in large enough quantities.

Mad honey is produced in several regions worldwide, including Nepal, where it is known as “Gurung honey” or “red honey.” In some parts of Nepal, Gurung honey is used for medicinal purposes and is believed to have therapeutic properties for various health conditions.

Hallucinogens Meaning & Hallucinogens Examples Drug Fact Sheet

This list of hallucinogens is publicly made available by the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) for substance use disorder awareness and to define hallucinogenic drugs. Download the below sheet for more information about types of hallucinogenic drugs.

Hallucinogens-2020Download
Ryan Zofay forming a circle and hugging friends.

Get Your Life Back

Find Hope & Recovery. Get Safe Comfortable Detox, Addiction Rehab & Dual Diagnosis Trused Care.

7/365 Line (844) 597-1011

Hallucinogens Long Term Effects & Statistics

Some research has suggested that long-term hallucinogen use may increase the risk of mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression and PTSD, especially in individuals with a pre-existing vulnerability to these conditions.

The National Institute of Health supported the survey and found the following hallucinogens use statistics. Participants’ hallucinogen types included LSD, MDMA, mescaline, peyote, “shrooms” or psilocybin, and PCP. The only hallucinogen measured that remarkably declined in use was MDMA, showing statistically massive declines within one year and the past five years – from 5 percent in 2016 and 2020 to 3 percent in 2021. [3]

5.5 Million

Roughly 5.5+ million people in the US used hallucinogens in 2019.

Source: NCBI

19-30

Cannabis and hallucinogen use in the past year reported by the young population 19 to 30 increased significantly in 2021.

Source: NCBI

8%

Before 2020 hallucinogen use had been relatively unmoving over the past few decades. However, in 2021, 8 percent of young adults reported past-year hallucinogen use, depicting an all-time high since the category was first studied and surveyed in 1988.

Source: NIDA

Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.

Searching for Accredited Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Near You?

Even if you have failed previously and relapsed, or are in the middle of a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. When you feel ready or just want someone to speak to about therapy alternatives to change your life call us. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you to wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.

(844) 597-1011

Risks of Long-Term Hallucinogen Use

Long-term use of hallucinogenic drugs can have significant and lasting negative impacts on both mental and physical health. 

One major risk is the development of persistent psychosis, a condition characterized by severe disturbances in thought, perception, and mood. Symptoms can include delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. Even a single use of hallucinogens can trigger this condition, and its effects may persist for months or even years.

Another serious risk is Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) which causes chronic visual disturbances and hallucinations. Individuals with HPPD may experience trails of light, distorted vision, and other visual anomalies. These symptoms can be triggered by various stimuli, including bright lights or certain patterns. Like persistent psychosis, HPPD can develop after a single use of hallucinogens and may last for an extended period.

Flashbacks, or involuntary recurrences of the drug’s effects, are another common consequence of long-term hallucinogenic use. These flashbacks can be triggered by stress, fatigue, or even sensory stimuli, such as certain sounds or smells. They can be highly distressing and impair daily functioning.

Long-term hallucinogenic use has been linked to an increased risk of developing various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. These drugs can also impair cognitive function, affecting memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.

Physically, long-term hallucinogenic use can lead to a range of health problems, such as heart problems, liver damage, and respiratory issues. The specific risks vary depending on the drug and individual factors, but the potential for physical harm is significant.

It’s important to note that the risks of long-term hallucinogenic use are not fully understood, and individual experiences can vary widely. However, the potential for severe and lasting negative consequences is clear..

Hallucinogenic Absinthe

The alleged “Absinthe hallucinogenic” is a high-proof alcoholic beverage traditionally made with wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) and other botanicals. Wormwood contains a compound called thujone, which is believed to have psychoactive effects and has been associated with hallucinations and other altered states of consciousness.

However, using absinthe as a hallucinogenic beverage has been controversial and largely unsubstantiated. The psychoactive effects of absinthe are generally attributed to the high alcohol content rather than the presence of thujone or other botanicals.

Moreover, the consumption of absinthe has been associated with potential health risks, such as liver damage, seizures, and addiction, especially when consumed in excess. Absinthe was banned in many places, including the United States and several European countries, in the early 20th century due to concerns over its safety and alleged hallucinogenic effects.

In recent years, absinthe has been legalized in many countries, including the United States, under certain conditions, such as limiting the thujone content and regulating the production and distribution of the beverage. However, it is crucial to use caution and to consume absinthe in moderation, as with any alcoholic beverage, and to be aware of the potential risks and adverse effects associated with its use.

Natural Hallucinogens Examples and Effects

Many hallucinogenic substances occur naturally in plants and fungi. Some of the most well-known examples include:

Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as “magic mushrooms” or “shrooms,” contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. When ingested, these mushrooms can cause visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perceptions of time and space, and profound spiritual experiences.

Peyote, a small cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, contains the hallucinogenic alkaloid mescaline. Indigenous cultures have used peyote in religious ceremonies for centuries. Its effects include vivid visual hallucinations, heightened sensory awareness, and introspective experiences.

Ayahuasca is a brew made from various Amazonian plants. It contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful psychedelic compound that can induce intense and often transformative experiences. Traditionally used in shamanic rituals, ayahuasca ceremonies can involve vivid hallucinations, emotional release, and spiritual insights. However, approach ayahuasca with caution and respect. The substance can cause severe psychological effects, and its legality varies across different countries.

First-class Facilities & Amenities

Trusted Integrated Addiction & Mental Health Rehabilitation Treatment

Rehab Centers Tour

Established Addiction Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient rehab programs vary.

Addiction Helpline (844) 597-1011

Comprehensive recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:

15+

Years of Unified Experience

100s

5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers

10K

Recovery Success Stories Across Our Network

  • Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
  • Onsite Medical Detox Center
  • Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
  • Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
  • Alumni Coaching, Recovery & Personal Development Events

Hallucinogens Short Term and Long Term Effects

The effects of hallucinogens can vary widely based on the individual, dose, and other factors and can be unpredictable. It is also recommended to be aware of the potential risks and adverse hallucinogens effects on brain and to seek professional guidance and support if needed.

Adverse effects of hallucinogens include the following:

  • Psychological Distress: Hallucinogens can cause intense psychological effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and confusion, leading to psychological distress and psychological disorders in some individuals.
  • Physical Effects: Hallucinogens can cause various biological effects, such as nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure.
  • Risky Behaviors: Hallucinogens can impair judgment and decision-making, leading some individuals to engage in risky behaviors such as driving under the influence or unsafe sexual practices.

Short Term Effects of Hallucinogens

The hallucinogens short term effects can vary based on the specific substance used, the dose, and the individual’s physical and mental state. However, some common short-term effects of hallucinogens include the following:

  • Altered sensory perception.
  • Emotional change.
  • Cognitive changes.
  • Synesthesia: Some individuals may experience synesthesia, a condition in which sensory information is perceived unusually, such as hearing colors or seeing sounds.

Long-Term Effects of Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens can have long-term effects on the brain that may take years, including the following long term effects of hallucinogens:

Therapist discussing recovery strategies with a hallucinogen user
  • Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD): Some individuals who use hallucinogens may experience ongoing perceptual changes or visual disturbances, even after the effects of the drug have worn off. This condition is known as HPPD and can last for a few days, months, or even years after using hallucinogens.
  • Mood Disorders: Long-term use of hallucinogens may increase the risk of developing mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, particularly in individuals with a history of mental health conditions.
  • Flashbacks: Some individuals may experience flashbacks or recurring visual or perceptual experiences similar to those experienced while under hallucinogens. Flashbacks can occur spontaneously and may be triggered by stress, anxiety, or other factors.
  • Cognitive Function: Some evidence suggests that long-term use of hallucinogens may impair cognitive function, particularly in areas such as memory and attention.
  • Addiction: Although hallucinogens are not typically considered addictive in the same way as drugs such as opioids or cocaine, some individuals may develop a psychological dependence on the drugs, leading to continued use despite negative consequences.

Hallucinogens Effects on the Body

Hallucinogens can affect the body, including short-term and long-term effects. Some common effects of hallucinogens on the body include the following:

  • Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Many hallucinogens can cause heightened or rapid heart rate, harming people with underlying cardiovascular conditions.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Some hallucinogens can cause nausea and vomiting, particularly at higher doses.
  • Dilated Pupils: Hallucinogens can cause the pupils to become enlarged, leading to increased sensitivity to light and blurred vision.
  • Muscle Weakness and Coordination Difficulties: Some hallucinogens can cause muscle weakness and problems with coordination, which can increase the risk of falls or other accidents.
  • Seizures: In rare cases, hallucinogens can trigger seizures, particularly in individuals already prone to seizures.

Misusing Hallucinogenic Drug Symptoms

Misusing hallucinogenic drugs can cause a range of physical and psychological symptoms. Some common misusing hallucinogens symptoms include the following:

  • Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: Hallucinogenic drugs can cause vivid and sometimes frightening hallucinations, which can be difficult to distinguish from reality.
  • Distorted Perception of Time and Space: Many hallucinogens can cause an altered perception of time and space, which can be disorienting and confusing.
  • Mood Changes: Hallucinogens can cause rapid and unpredictable changes in mood, including euphoria, anxiety, or depression.
  • Paranoia and Anxiety: Some individuals may experience paranoia or intense anxiety while under hallucinogens.
  • Disordered Thinking and Behavior: Hallucinogens can cause disordered thinking and behavior, leading to actions that are out of character or dangerous.
  • Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Misusing hallucinogens can cause an increase in heart rate, causing high blood pressure, which can harm people with underlying cardiovascular conditions.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Some hallucinogens can cause nausea and vomiting, particularly at higher doses.

It is generally believed that hallucinogens do not cause physical dependency, meaning that the body does not develop a physical need or craving for the drug. Unlike opioids or alcohol, which can lead to physical dependence with regular use, hallucinogens do not produce physical withdrawal symptoms when use is discontinued.

However, hallucinogens can still lead to psychological dependence. Some individuals may become attached to the feelings of euphoria, insight, or escape those hallucinogens can produce and may continue to seek out these experiences despite adverse consequences or risks. Moreover, repeated use of hallucinogens can cause tolerance, meaning higher drug doses are needed to achieve the same effects. This can lead to a cycle of increasing use and potential harm. Seek professional help if you or someone you’re concerned with is struggling with drug use.

Treatment for Hallucinogen Addiction

The treatment for hallucinogen use should be individualized and tailored to the particular requirements and needs of the individual. The first step in developing an effective treatment plan is seeking professional help from a qualified healthcare provider or addiction specialist. The treatment for hallucinogen use depends on the individual’s needs and the severity of their use. Some options for treatment may include the following:

  • Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help people to recognize and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior related to drug use. This type of talk therapy can be sufficient in helping individuals to manage cravings and avoid relapse.
  • Support Groups: Support groups, such as 12-step programs, can provide individuals with a supportive and understanding community of peers recovering from drug use.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment: While no medications are approved explicitly for treating hallucinogen use disorder, some medications may be used to manage symptoms such as anxiety or depression contributing to drug use.
  • Residential Rehab Treatment: In severe cases of a hallucinogen use disorder, residential treatment in a specialized facility may be necessary. This can provide individuals with intensive therapy and support in a controlled environment.
Visual map outlining the recovery journey from hallucinogen addiction

One reason to get help for being addicted to hallucinogenic drugs immediately is that it does not take years of chronic misuse to incur the most severe psychological consequences. No matter how small or infrequent, every use puts your mind, and inherently, your life, at risk.

Get FREE addiction treatment insurance check – https://welevelup.com/rehab-insurance/ If you or a loved one is struggling with hallucinogenic substance addiction or other substance use disorder(s), call for a FREE consultation 24/7 at (561) 678-0917.

Specialized, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Evidence-based Addiction & Mental Health Programs. Complete Behavioral Health Inpatient Rehab, Detox plus Co-occuring Disorders Therapy.

CALL(844) 597-1011

End the Addiction Pain. End the Emotional Rollercoaster. Get Your Life Back. Start Drug, Alcohol & Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Treatment Now. Get Free, No-obligation Guidance by Substance Abuse Specialists Who Understand Addiction & Mental Health Recovery & Know How to Help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the effects of hallucinogens?

Hallucinogens are psychoactive drugs that can dramatically alter a person’s perception, mood, and thoughts. The specific effects can vary depending on the drug, the dose, and the individual’s physical and mental state.

What are hallucinogens?

Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelics, are a group of drugs that alter a person’s perception of reality. They can change how people see, hear, taste, smell, or feel, and also affect mood and thought. Some hallucinogens are human-made (synthetic), while others come from naturally occurring compounds found in certain plants and fungi.

How are hallucinogens taken?

Hallucinogens can be taken in various ways, including ingestion, smoking, inhalation, and injection. These methods can be dangerous and lead to serious health consequences. Using hallucinogens can have long-term psychological effects and may even trigger psychosis in some individuals. It’s important to prioritize safety and seek professional guidance before considering hallucinogen use. Additionally, most hallucinogens are illegal in many parts of the world, including the United States.

Are mushrooms hallucinogenic?

Not all mushrooms are hallucinogenic. Only certain types of mushrooms contain substances called psilocybin and psilocin, which can cause hallucinations and altered states of consciousness. These mushrooms are often referred to as “magic mushrooms” or “shrooms.” It’s important to note that consuming these mushrooms can be dangerous and illegal in many places. They can have unpredictable effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and even psychosis. Avoid eating wild mushrooms unless you are an expert who can identify them safely.

Which symptom is characteristic of someone on a hallucinogenic drug?

Hallucinations are a common symptom of someone using hallucinogenic drugs. These drugs can distort a person’s perception of reality, causing them to see, hear, or feel things that aren’t actually there. This can lead to a range of experiences, from mild distortions to severe delusions. Hallucinations can be visual, auditory, or tactile, and they can be frightening or even dangerous.

What’s the definition of a hallucinogen?

Hallucinogens are psychoactive drugs that dramatically alter your thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. They can make you see, hear, or feel things that aren’t real. These drugs change how your brain works, leading to hallucinations and other distorted sensory experiences.

Can you grow hallucinogenic plants in your backyard?

You can grow hallucinogenic plants in your backyard, but know that it’s illegal in many places. Growing and possessing these plants can be dangerous and harmful, and could also get you into legal trouble.

Experience Transformative Recovery at We Level Up Treatment Centers.

See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.

We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis TherapyWe Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis TherapyWe Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy

Hotline (844) 597-1011
Voluntarily testimonials from the We Level Up Treatment Center network vary. Not intended as a guaranteed treatment or outcome as each person's journey is unique.

Start a New Life

Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up Treatment Center Network delivers recovery programs that vary by each treatment facility. Call to learn more.

  • Personalized Care
  • Caring Accountable Staff
  • World-class Amenities
  • Licensed & Accredited
  • Renowned w/ 100s 5-Star Reviews

We’ll Call You


Search We Level Up Hallucinogens Detox, Mental Health Topics & Resources
Addiction Rehab Topics
Addiction Detox Topics
Mental Health Topics
Sources

[1] Hallucinogens Drug Fact Sheet – Department of Justice / Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

[2] N, N-DIMETHYLTRYPTAMINE (DMT) – Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

[3] NIDA. 2022, August 22. Marijuana and hallucinogen use among young adults reached a time-high in 2021. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/2022/08/marijuana-and-hallucinogen-use-among-young-adults-reached-all-time-high-in-2021 on 2023, April 24

[4] Dos Santos RG, Bouso JC, Rocha JM, Rossi GN, Hallak JE. The Use of Classic Hallucinogens/Psychedelics in a Therapeutic Context: Healthcare Policy Opportunities and Challenges. Risk Manag Healthc Policy. 2021 Mar 5;14:901-910. DOI: 10.2147/RMHP.S300656. PMID: 33707976; PMCID: PMC7943545.

[5] Psychedelic and Dissociative Drugs – National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

[6] Lowe H, Toyang N, Steele B, Valentine H, Grant J, Ali A, Ngwa W, Gordon L. The Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin. Molecules. 2021 May 15;26(10):2948. DOI: 10.3390/molecules26102948. PMID: 34063505; PMCID: PMC8156539.

[7] Daniel J, Haberman M. Clinical potential of psilocybin as a treatment for mental health conditions. Ment Health Clin. 2018 Mar 23;7(1):24-28. DOI: 10.9740/mhc.2017.01.024. PMID: 29955494; PMCID: PMC6007659.

[8] Dinis-Oliveira RJ, Pereira CL, da Silva DD. Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Aspects of Peyote and Mescaline: Clinical and Forensic Repercussions. Curr Mol Pharmacol. 2019;12(3):184-194. DOI: 10.2174/1874467211666181010154139. PMID: 30318013; PMCID: PMC6864602.

[9] Hwang KAJ, Saadabadi A. Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) [Updated 2022 Jul 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482407/

[10] Liechti ME. Modern Clinical Research on LSD. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2017 Oct;42(11):2114-2127. DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.86. Epub 2017 Apr 27. PMID: 28447622; PMCID: PMC5603820.