Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) and Other Hallucinogens
Patients who seek medical care after self-administering mind-altering substances may have used any of a large variety of chemicals. Several of these agents are discussed elsewhere in this manual (eg, amphetamines [See Amphetamines], cocaine [See Cocaine], marijuana [See Marijuana], phencyclidine [See Phencyclidine (PCP) and Ketamine], and toluene [See Toluene and Xylene]). The drugs discussed in this chapter, LSD and other hallucinogens, have become known in some circles as entactogens (“to touch within”), enhancing sensations and promoting illusions. Several have been used widely for personal experimentation as well as clinically to facilitate psychotherapeutic interviews. Although the use of LSD and other hallucinogens has declined over the past decades, these agents are nevertheless still abused. Table II–32 lists some common and uncommon hallucinogens.
Drug or Compound | Common Name | Comments |
|---|---|---|
5-Hydroxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine | Bufotenine | From skin and secretions of the toad Bufo vulgaris. |
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine | DMT, “Businessman’s trip” | Slang term refers to short duration (30–60 minutes). Prepared as snuff from leaves, seeds, and pods. Found in plants and ayahuasca brews (along with harmaline) of South America. |
2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetaminea | DOB | Potent ergot-like vascular spasm may result in ischemia, gangrene. |
2,5-Dimethoxy-4-methyl-amphetaminea | DOM, STP (“Serenity, Tranquility, Peace”) | Potent sympathomimetic. |
4,9-Dihydro-7-methoxy-1-methyl-3-pyrido-(3,4)-indole | Harmaline | South American religious and cultural drink called yage or ayahuasca (along with DMT). Monoamine oxidase inhibitor, preventing metabolism and enhancing effects of DMT in ayahuasca brews. Sympathomimetic effects. |
Lysergic acid diethylamide | LSD, “acid” | Potent hallucinogen. Average dose of 50–150 mcg in tablets, papers. |
Mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone) | “Bounce,” “Bubbles,” “M-Cat,” “Mad Cow,” “Meow-Meow” | Amphetamine-like drug sold as “bath salts” but really intended for ingestion or inhalation. |
n-Methyl-1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-butanamine | MBDB | Nearly pure entactogen without hallucinosis or sympathomimetic stimulation. |
