The 5 Most Common Hallucinogens and Their Dangerous Effects

Hallucinogens are often not as discussed as other drugs. However, they may be just as dangerous in many ways. As a result, you must understand the 5 most common hallucinogens. You must also know the effects that they have on the body and the mind. Thankfully addiction treatment programs in Jacksonville, FL, can help you. They can help you get treatment and understand these drugs more fully.

What are Hallucinogens?

Hallucinogens are a type of drug that alters a person’s perception. People who take hallucinogens may hear sounds that are not there and see things that don’t exist. Classic hallucinogens, like LSD, produce these effects without causing a person to “leave their body.” That effect is known as disassociation. That only occurs with dissociative hallucinogens, like PCP. People who take these hallucinogens may lose control over their behavior. Others feel like they are disconnected from their bodies.

These drugs have a long history of use. Native American tribes synthesized natural hallucinogens to go on “spirit quests.” Others, like LSD, were initially developed for medical purposes. And each causes many other side effects. These include sleep troubles, sexual dysfunction or excitement, and even nausea. The 5 most common typically produce some of the most consistent and potent effects.

What are the 5 Most Common Hallucinogens?

The 5 most common hallucinogens rarely change. Though many new types come out every year, the most-abused options are those that users trust. As a result, this list should be accurate for years to come. Each of the listings below gives an idea of what each hallucinogen does to your body and mind. They are ordered according to their abuse popularity and include:

• LSD – This human-made chemical creates potent hallucinations and may trigger “flashbacks” in people years after their last dose
• Mescaline – Found in the peyote cactus, this hallucinogen has a long history with many Native American tribes and produces very extreme out-of-body hallucinations
• Psilocybin – Also known as “mushrooms,” this substance is very similar to LSD but produces less mild and long-lasting hallucinations; may be eaten or brewed in tea
• PCP – This substance – also known as angel dust – is a synthetic hallucinogen; it is a white powder or liquid and causes very intense hallucinations, violent behaviors, and psychological damage
• DMT – Dimethyltryptamine is found in many Amazon plants and comes in a white crystal; when smoked, it produces very potent hallucinations

Abuse of these substances may cause many problems. For example, LSD users may struggle to connect with reality. PCP users may become violent and aggressive, leading to legal issues. All of these may cause psychological issues. As a result, you may want to consider treatment for hallucinogens. This care varies depending on the substance that you use.

Are These Hallucinogens Addictive?

Most of the 5 most common hallucinogens are not considered addictive. For example, LSD does not affect opioid receptors or cause a physical compulsion to use. Some users may feel psychologically compelled to abuse, however. That said, most specialists don’t consider it truly addictive. Other substances, like DMT, have not been studied enough to clarify this point. Therefore, most experts believe DMT is not addictive.

That said, PCP – angel dust – may trigger compulsive abuse. For example, withdrawal symptoms like cravings and headaches often occur after quitting. Though not severe, they can be painful. As a result, rehab addiction care may be necessary for this substance.

However, even users of non-addictive hallucinogens may want to consider rehab. Flashbacks and traumatic trips may adversely affect you for years after even one use. Thankfully, addiction treatment centers can manage this problem. Experts here fully understand the emotional and behavioral issues triggered by hallucinogens. They can then provide care that helps you stay healthy and stable.

Who Can Help With Your Recovery?

If you abuse any of the 5 most common hallucinogens and are worried about their effects, please contact us at Beaches Recovery. With our JCAHO-accredited care, you will be safe from hallucinogens and other addictions. Our dual-diagnosis care helps you understand the psychological impact of your hallucinations. And we work with many different insurance options. So call 866.605.0532 to learn more today. Don’t forget: we also offer detox in Tide’s Edge!