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Hallucinogens are psychoactive substances that profoundly alter perceptual experiences, generating unreal visual and sensory images. Often referred to as psychedelic drugs — a term derived from the Greek words "psyche" (mind) and "delos" (revealing) — these substances include marijuana and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), among others. These drugs vary in intensity and effects.
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Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a phytocannabinoid that primarily interacts with the CB1 receptor, a type of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) predominantly in and around the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and emetic center. THC also blocks the serotonin receptor activity in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) by inhibiting serotonin release. THC exerts its anti-emetic effects through these interactions, which are beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
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Altered states of consciousness represent significant deviations from one's normal mental state. These deviations can range from subtle changes in awareness to profound transformations in perception, thought processes, and sensory experiences. Altered states of consciousness can be triggered by various factors, including drug use, meditation, hypnosis, illness, or even intense fatigue.
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CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids01:24

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CNS stimulants, such as cocaine, amphetamines, and cannabinoids, have varying structures and mechanisms of action that lead to different therapeutic effects and side effects. Cocaine, with its molecular formula C17H21NO4, is a tropane alkaloid and a tertiary amino compound. It has two chemical forms: the hydrochloride salt and the "freebase." The former is in powder form, while the latter involves removing the hydrochloride salt to create a form that can be smoked. Cocaine exerts its...
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CNS Stimulants: Psychedelic Agents01:22

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Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelic drugs, are a class of substances known for their ability to alter perception, cognition, and emotions. Despite their profound effects on the mind, these drugs are non-addictive, setting them apart from many other abused substances. The mechanism of action of these drugs lies in their impact on the 5-HT2A receptor in the brain. Upon activation, this receptor couples to Gq-type G proteins, triggering a cascade that releases intracellular calcium. This...
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An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs01:28

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Psychoactive drugs impact brain function, influencing perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, and behavior. These substances are grouped based on their effects and the mechanisms by which they act.
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Brain Morphology of Cannabis Users With or Without Psychosis: A Pilot MRI Study
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Cannabis-induced oceanic boundlessness.

Mitch Earleywine1, Luna F Ueno1, Maha N Mian1

  • 1Department of Psychology, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, USA.

Journal of Psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
|March 29, 2021
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

High doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can produce subjective effects similar to psilocybin, though less intense. Cannabis use and demographics may influence these psychedelic-like experiences.

Keywords:
Tetrahydrocannabinolcancercigarettesdepressionmystical experiencesoceanic boundlessnesspsychedelic-assisted psychotherapy

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Area of Science:

  • Psychopharmacology
  • Cannabis research
  • Psychedelic studies

Background:

  • Limited research exists on cannabis's subjective effects compared to tryptamine psychedelics.
  • Subjective responses to psychedelics like psilocybin have been linked to therapeutic outcomes.
  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is known for potent effects, but its psychedelic-like qualities are understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if cannabis-induced subjective experiences parallel those observed in psilocybin clinical trials.
  • To explore correlations between demographic factors, cannabis use patterns, and these subjective responses.

Main Methods:

  • Participants reported subjective effects of high-dose tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) experiences.
  • A 27-item scale assessed oceanic boundlessness, a marker of mystical experiences.
  • Demographic and cannabis consumption data were collected, alongside infrequency items for data validation.

Main Results:

  • Self-reported "breakthrough" experiences with cannabis were significantly lower than those in psilocybin trials (17-19% vs. 59%).
  • Total subjective effect scores correlated with perceived THC dosage in one sample.
  • Heavier cannabis users reported lower subjective effect scores.

Conclusions:

  • High-dose cannabis can induce subjective effects comparable to psilocybin, potentially preceding therapeutic benefits.
  • Comparing THC and psilocybin effects may enhance understanding of subjective experience mechanisms.
  • This research could inform the development of cannabis-assisted therapies analogous to psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy.