Psychedelics Class Slides & Lecture Notes

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Questions and Answers

What phenomenon describes the experience of sights occurring as sounds and vice versa?

Visual synesthesia

Multisensory perception

Auditory visualization

Synthesia (correct)

In the second phase of LSD effects, what is one characteristic effect experienced?

Perception of a multilevel reality (correct)

Heightened sense of smell

Increased tactile sensitivity

Acute emotional clarity

During which phase of LSD effects do significant swings in emotions typically occur?

Third Phase (correct)

Final Phase

First Phase

Second Phase

What visual distortion might occur during a LSD experience involving objects?

Objects changing size and shape Signup and view all the answers

What feeling related to time is commonly reported during the effects of LSD?

Feeling of timelessness Signup and view all the answers

What is a common experience related to the perception of oneself during the third phase of LSD effects?

Ego disintegration Signup and view all the answers

Which example best demonstrates the phenomenon of synesthesia as described in the content?

Hearing music produce visual patterns Signup and view all the answers

What might a user perceive when looking at their hands during an LSD experience?

Hands elongating Signup and view all the answers

How is the experience of a falling towel perceived during an LSD trip, as illustrated in the content?

Like a giant lizard crawling Signup and view all the answers

What effect might occur regarding sound during an LSD experience?

Sounds resemble visual phenomena Signup and view all the answers

What describes the sensory and psychological alterations caused by LSD most accurately?

They have the potential for harmful and disturbing consequences. Signup and view all the answers

What is the prevalence rate of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) among people who have used hallucinogens?

4.2% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes flashbacks experienced after using LSD?

They may be triggered by darkness or individual factors. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of HPPD in relation to visual disturbances?

It may cause perception of movement in the visual field. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk factor for experiencing HPPD after LSD use?

Genetic predisposition. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the physiological toxicity of LSD is true?

LSD has a low level of physiological toxicity. Signup and view all the answers

What is an effect of combining LSD with certain drugs like MDMA?

Potentially lethal hyperthermia. Signup and view all the answers

What type of memory is characterized by brief re-experiencing of sensations and emotions from an LSD trip?

Flashbacks. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary factor that contributes to the development of tolerance to LSD?

Downregulation of 5-HT2A receptors. Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is NOT primarily modulated by the thalamus during the experience of hallucinations?

Norepinephrine Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of hallucination is characterized by the recognition of visual images (e.g., spirals, grids) that are not perceived as real?

Stage 1 Signup and view all the answers

What is the psychoactive ingredient found in magic mushrooms (Psilocybe) that is recognized for its hallucinogenic properties?

Psilocybin Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'psychedelic' signify in relation to these substances?

Ability to alter sensory perception Signup and view all the answers

Which brain area is primarily involved in the integration and processing of sensory information?

Cerebral Cortex Signup and view all the answers

What significant change occurs in the Default Mode Network when under the influence of psychedelics?

It becomes more active and engages in top-down processing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following compounds is synthesized to be smoked and can be found in various plants?

DMT Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimal effective dose of LSD for psychological effects?

10 micrograms Signup and view all the answers

Which psychoactive compound is associated with the peyote cactus?

Mescaline Signup and view all the answers

Which synthesis mechanism is implicated in the hallucinogenic effects of LSD?

Inhibition of serotonin release Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of LSD distinguishes its action from other hallucinogens?

It selectively enhances responses to novel stimuli. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the thalamus play in the experience of hallucinations under psychedelics?

It facilitates the filtering of incoming sensory input. Signup and view all the answers

Which effect is primarily associated with high doses of psychedelics?

Loss of ability to discern self-identity. Signup and view all the answers

In which area of the brain is increased activity correlated with auditory hallucinations under the influence of psychedelics?

Middle and superior temporal lobes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following hallucinogenic compounds is derived from a plant and traditionally used in South American healing rites?

DMT Signup and view all the answers

What best characterizes the mechanism of action of psychedelics in disrupting emotional responses?

Inhibition of serotonin release via the raphe nuclei. Signup and view all the answers

What defines the 'default mode network' in the context of hallucinogens?

A collection of brain regions active during self-referential thought. Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter's activity is suppressed by LSD, influencing its effects?

Serotonin Signup and view all the answers

Which visual phenomenon is most commonly reported during the early stages of a psychedelic experience?

Persistent phosphenes Signup and view all the answers

What sensory experience is commonly distorted during a psychedelic experience with respect to touch?

Sensations feeling amplified and misinterpreted. Signup and view all the answers

What psychological alteration can potentially result from the combined use of LSD and certain other drugs such as MDMA?

Lethal hyperthermia Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)?

Visual disturbances causing notable distress Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a sensory experience that might occur during an LSD trip?

Tactile sensations from visual stimuli Signup and view all the answers

How does tolerance to LSD develop according to the effects on receptors?

By down-regulation of the 5-HT2A receptors Signup and view all the answers

What could potentially trigger flashbacks experienced after LSD use?

Inducing stress or darkness Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential perceptual experience related to visual stimuli during LSD usage?

The sense of seeing deeper structures within objects. Signup and view all the answers

Which emotional experience is typically noted during the third phase of LSD effects?

Intense feelings of anxiety correlated with time distortion. Signup and view all the answers

What best explains the prevalence of HPPD among hallucinogen users?

Lack of significant correlation to use frequency Signup and view all the answers

What are potential consequences of intense LSD hallucinations?

Panic attacks leading to cardiovascular issues Signup and view all the answers

How might the experience of time be altered during the effects of LSD?

Time appears to slow down significantly. Signup and view all the answers

What visual phenomenon might occur for someone under the influence of LSD?

Objects appearing to morph or change shape rapidly. Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT associated with HPPD experiences?

Auditory hallucinations Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated prevalence rate of HPPD among individuals who have used hallucinogens?

4.2% Signup and view all the answers

During which phase of LSD effects might a user experience intangible perceptions of reality?

Second phase, characterized by perceptions of multilevel reality. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the non-physiological effects experienced during an LSD trip?

Euphoria and bizarre thoughts Signup and view all the answers

What is a hallmark characteristic of the sense of identity during the third phase of LSD effects?

Ego disintegration, or a separation from one’s physical being. Signup and view all the answers

What usually describes the auditory experience for someone undergoing a LSD trip?

Sound is experienced as visual imagery. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of alterations can occur regarding physical objects during the second phase of LSD effects?

Objects can appear exaggerated or grotesque. Signup and view all the answers

What might a person perceive when experiencing synesthesia?

The sensation of taste corresponding with visual stimuli. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary emotional response of the narrator during the experience?

Fear and disbelief Signup and view all the answers

Which imagery illustrates the narrator's perception of reality during the experience?

A flat, two-dimensional sheet Signup and view all the answers

What significant thought crossed the narrator's mind regarding his existence?

He was unprepared for this moment. Signup and view all the answers

How did the narrator perceive his physical body during the experience?

As merging with the universe Signup and view all the answers

What was the narrator's reaction towards the relationship with his wife during this experience?

He hoped to end together and shared love. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common effect observed with high doses of PCP?

Pulmonary edema Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a psychological outcome associated with PCP usage?

Paranoid delusions Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical duration of hospital stay for individuals exhibiting psychotic symptoms related to PCP use?

2 weeks Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms is NOT typically associated with depressed mood following PCP use?

Intense energy bursts Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential fetal effect of using PCP during pregnancy?

Slowed growth Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects our understanding of PCP tolerance development?

It typically develops within 2-3 weeks of daily use. Signup and view all the answers

Which withdrawal symptom has been documented in animal studies connected to PCP use?

Vocalizations and tremors Signup and view all the answers

What notable aspect about ketamine clinics is observed in Canada?

Limited access to treatment for major depression. Signup and view all the answers

What is often the result of animal studies regarding the effects of PCP on developing brains?

Widespread brain cell death. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes mescaline from most other psychedelics in terms of its legal status in the United States?

It is the only psychedelic sanctioned for open use by the government. Signup and view all the answers

What are the initial physiological effects experienced after consuming mescaline?

Nausea, vomiting, tremors, and incoordination. Signup and view all the answers

How does mescaline's mechanism differ from that of norepinephrine?

Mescaline acts on serotonin type 2A receptors as an agonist. Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable characteristic of mescaline’s tolerance development?

Tolerance dissipates almost immediately after cessation of use. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the historical significance of peyote usage?

Peyote has been used in religious ceremonies since the time of the Aztecs. Signup and view all the answers

What sensory phenomenon is expected during the peak effects of mescaline?

Seeing vividly colored lights and geometric designs. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the psychological dependence associated with mescaline usage?

There is no significant psychological dependence reported. Signup and view all the answers

Which effect is least likely to be experienced after using salvinorin A?

Enhanced coordination Signup and view all the answers

What describes the phenomenon of 'Salvia Winds' most accurately?

Feeling of intense sideways or downwards pressure Signup and view all the answers

Which negative effect is NOT commonly associated with the use of salvinorin A?

Improved self-confidence Signup and view all the answers

What psychological alteration is most likely to occur during a salvinorin A experience?

Heightened creativity Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior is typically noted as a common side effect of salvinorin A use?

Uncontrollable laughter Signup and view all the answers

Which experience is least likely to be reported by salvinorin A users?

Feeling of great fatigue Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is indicative of the mild withdrawal symptoms from salvinorin A?

Headache and irritability Signup and view all the answers

What sensory alteration is NOT typically reported during salvinorin A experiences?

Enhanced auditory perception Signup and view all the answers

What type of emotional experience is most commonly associated with the negative effects of salvinorin A?

Dysphoria and irritability Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of salvinorin A effects distinguishes it from traditional psychedelics?

Lack of serotonin type 2A receptor activity Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic phenomenon reported during the experience of salvinorin A?

Feeling of indifference to the outside world Signup and view all the answers

What sensation did one user describe about their body during the experience?

Body feeling like a bio-organic machine Signup and view all the answers

What type of imagery was reported during the early stages of one user's experience?

Hypnagogic imagery of people in traditional dress Signup and view all the answers

What emotional state did one user experience after consuming salvinorin A?

Laziness and difficulty in thinking Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of consciousness did one individual feel was affected during their experience?

Separation from their spiritual light body Signup and view all the answers

How did the experience of salvinorin A compare to the opioid buprenorphine according to user reports?

Resulted in a feeling of indifference Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon related to spirituality or the metaphysical was experienced by one user?

Experiencing a sense of immortality Signup and view all the answers

What kind of physical activity did the user mention was notable during their experience with salvinorin A?

Slow, deliberate breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is an effect participants mentioned that relates to their perception of the outside world during the experience?

Feeling disconnected from reality Signup and view all the answers

What traditional use of common sage is mentioned in relation to spiritual practices?

Burning in ceremonies for cleansing Signup and view all the answers

What describes the feeling experienced when consciousness loss occurs during the trip?

An immediate transition without sensation Signup and view all the answers

What unusual visual phenomenon was described as happening to the individual's body?

Feeling the body stretching and merging with another figure Signup and view all the answers

Which emotion was notably absent despite the sensation of a grin?

Joy Signup and view all the answers

What effect did the dimming of lights have on the individual's perception during the experience?

A transition into a serene state of relaxation Signup and view all the answers

What did the presence of the bowler-hatted figure symbolize during the experience?

A guidance towards a state of consciousness beyond self Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason PCP use was discontinued in humans?

Associated with significant recovery complications Signup and view all the answers

Which receptors does PCP primarily antagonize?

Glutamate and aspartate receptors Signup and view all the answers

What effect is notably observed with a high dose of PCP (10 mg or more)?

Nystagmus and feeling detached from surroundings Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following effects is least likely to occur with PCP use?

Weight loss and insomnia Signup and view all the answers

How does PCP influence dopamine levels?

It enhances dopamine release in specific brain regions Signup and view all the answers

What is a common psychological effect experienced after PCP intoxication?

Amnesia for actions while intoxicated Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a physical symptom of lower doses of PCP?

Numbness of extremities and motor incoordination Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of treatment with ketamine was observed one hour after administration?

Significant improvements in anxiety and depression Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Salvinorin A from other hallucinogens?

It is not an alkaloid Signup and view all the answers

Which age group was included in the study for ketamine treatment evaluation?

Aged 18-60 years Signup and view all the answers

What traditional role has Salvia divinorum played among Mazatec shamans?

Health and spiritual healing purposes Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary outcome measure in the efficacy study of ketamine for treating depression?

Improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms Signup and view all the answers

In which region is the mint plant Salvia divinorum indigenous?

Oaxaca, Mexico Signup and view all the answers

What was the method of administration for ketamine in the treatment study?

Intravenous infusion Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of Salvinorin A is found in the leaves of Salvia divinorum?

0.18% Signup and view all the answers

What was the total number of doses administered to participants during the ketamine study?

Six doses Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the initial sensations reported by users of Salvinorin A during their experience?

A sensation of being lifted from the body Signup and view all the answers

Which phenomenon is commonly reported during the Salvinorin A experience, as described in the anecdotes?

Experiencing conversations with invisible entities Signup and view all the answers

How do users describe their relationship with their physical body during a Salvinorin A experience?

Their body feels like a separate, controllable machine. Signup and view all the answers

What feeling does the use of common sage in ceremonies aim to produce, similar to effects noted with Salvia divinorum?

Pleasant feelings by removing negativity Signup and view all the answers

During a Salvinorin A experience, what is one psychological state that users might encounter after an initial phase?

A prolonged state of confusion and laziness Signup and view all the answers

What kind of imagery do users commonly report experiencing during the Salvinorin A trip?

Hypnagogic imagery involving characters Signup and view all the answers

Which sensation is reported by individuals after the euphoric effects of Salvia divinorum begin to fade?

A sense of detachment from reality Signup and view all the answers

What effect does using common sage in sweat lodge ceremonies aim to achieve in participants?

Facilitate physical healing through sweating Signup and view all the answers

What common mental state is evoked by both Salvinorin A and other psychoactive substances such as buprenorphine?

Prostration and indifference to external stimuli Signup and view all the answers

What method of administration does NOT effectively deliver salvinorin A into the bloodstream?

Sublingual administration Signup and view all the answers

Which component is directly correlated with salvinorin A being cleared from the brain?

Active transport mechanism Signup and view all the answers

What is the principal metabolite of salvinorin A?

Salvinorin B Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological effect is associated with salvinorin A use?

Dizziness and nausea Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for the effects of salvinorin A to begin after oral administration?

5 to 10 minutes Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is NOT inhibited by salvinorin A according to animal studies?

GABA Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical dose range for smoking salvia leaves?

250 to 750 milligrams Signup and view all the answers

What type of receptor does salvinorin A act on as an agonist?

Kappa receptors Signup and view all the answers

What is the experience duration for effects after smoking salvinorin A?

20 to 30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What method of administration would likely lead to the lowest concentration of salvinorin A reaching the brain?

Drinking the crushed leaves with water Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Psychedelics

Psychedelics are a heterogeneous group of compounds.
They can induce hallucinations, separating individuals from reality and inducing psychotic-like behavior.
No single term fully describes the range of psychological, behavioral, and pharmacological effects.

Types of Psychedelics

Naturally Occurring Agents: Derived from plants over thousands of years, often with ascribed magical properties.
- Examples: Psilocybin (magic mushrooms), mescaline (peyote cactus), harmine and harmaline (tropical vine), DMT (found in insects and plants), Myristine/Elmycin, Salvinorum A, Ibotinic Acid, Salvia divinorum
Synthetic Agents: Created in labs.
- Examples: LSD, Ketamine, PCP

History

Late 1960s and 1970s saw increased recreational use, primarily for enhancing reality, promoting personal awareness and understanding of spirituality, instead of primary use in therapy.
Currently, more recreational use with lower doses.
Typical dose of LSD in the 1970s (100mg) is now 40–70 mg.

Visual Effects

Colors appear brighter and more saturated.
Contrast and edges of objects are more defined, and objects seem to "pop."
Size changes, and objects may appear smaller or larger than they are.

Auditory Effects

Sounds may be amplified, but not always clearer.
People's voices may sound louder, but garbled.

Sensory Distortions

Smells are more acute, but recognition of an odor may be impaired.
Taste is difficult to decipher but lingers.
Touch is more sensitive but distorted, feeling like sandpaper.

Nature of Hallucinations

Hallucinations occur in stages, usually beginning with visual images (spirals, grids, geometric patterns) with eyes closed, then projected onto surfaces when eyes opened.
Images rapidly change and typically have a pattern.
Visual experiences can include perception of bodily form changes, revisiting past places, and overlapping realities. Some may perceive themselves as part of an object or experience merging with an object. Perceptual distortions can be multifaceted, involving objects like bricks, limbs, or even cartoon characters.

Biology of Hallucinations

Brain areas involved: thalamus (traffic officer for sensory info), cerebral cortex (primary, secondary, default mode network - connected brain areas in the frontal and parietal lobes active when not focused on outside world), locus coeruleus.
Psychedelics alter neurotransmitter activity in the thalamus, changing the balance between excitatory and inhibitory activity, causing poor filtering of sensory information, affecting connections to cortical areas, and increasing activity of the default mode network.
Psychedelics block NMDA receptors, affect agonist actions at DA and 5-HT 2A receptors, and block GABA receptors.
Impacts areas beyond the thalamus including prefrontal cortex, limbic system, temporal and parietal cortices, and brainstem.
Activity of the locus coeruleus is suppressed, significantly increasing its response to novel stimuli, and other effects on neurotransmitter activity occur throughout the brain.
Some research suggests that drugs that block NMDA glutamate receptors increase delta wave activity in the thalamus (slowing down brain activity).

LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)

General Description:
- Potent drug, requiring microgram doses.
- First use was in therapy, then gained recreational use in the 1960s.
ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion):
- Rapidly absorbed into bloodstream, extensively metabolized, excreted via feces and bile.
- Peak effects are typically 90 minutes to 5 hours.
- Only about 1% enters the brain.
Mechanism of Action:
- Agonist of serotonin (5-HT2A receptors).
- Suppresses activity of locus coeruleus (LC).
- Enhances LC's response to novelty.
- Affects activity in the medial prefrontal cortex via glutaminergic neurons.
- Inhibits serotonin release from raphe nuclei.
Effects (First, Second, and Third Phases): Specific effects of each phase are detailed & elaborated on.

LSD - Toxicity and Dependence

Toxicity: Low level of physiological toxicity, but harmful consequences from sensory/psychological alterations, including flashbacks, and potentially dangerous behaviors. There are no reported cases of death from overdose.
Dependence: No physical dependence, but some individuals report psychological dependence.

Flashbacks (Hallucination Persisting Perception Disorder - HPPD)

Re-experiencing of LSD trip complete with images, sensations, and emotions, typically lasting only a few seconds, but can last for years.
Can be triggered by darkness, stress, and other factors.
Mechanisms are not fully understood.
Strong correlation hasn't been established between frequency of use and HPPD occurrence; approximately 4.2% prevalence among hallucinogen users; possible genetic factors and some trigger factors.

Tolerance

Tolerance to both psychological and physical effects develops within 1–3 days with daily use.
- Due to downregulation of 5-HT2A receptors in the thalamus.
- Disappears within about a week.
- Cross-tolerance with other psychedelics like psilocybin and mescaline; no cross-tolerance with marijuana.

Dependence

No physical dependence.
Some people develop psychological dependence.

Additional Notes

The LSD experience is described as demanding and exhausting, requiring significant effort to endure the sensory bombardment, emotional swings (further detailed descriptions of the experience are included), ranging from mild experiences to extreme sensory distortions.
Forms of LSD include microdots, gelatin chips ("window panes"), and blotter paper. Further detail on the forms of LSD, including creation processes and decorating patterns are included.

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Description

Explore the fascinating world of psychedelics, including their various types, effects, and historical context. This quiz covers naturally occurring and synthetic agents, highlighting their unique properties and uses. Join us to deepen your understanding of these complex compounds.