Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: DTE
Context: Driven by the need for better mental health treatments and the low success rate of current medications, researchers are calling for clinical trials of psychedelic drugs in India. P
About Psychedelics
Psychedelics are a class of drugs that alter perception, behaviour, consciousness, and thought, often intensifying sensory awareness. These drugs, a subset of psychotropic substances, are known for causing vivid hallucinations and drastically changing an individual’s thoughts and perceptions.
Categories of Psychedelics:
- Classical Psychedelics: Primarily cause hallucinations by activating the serotonin 5-HT receptor, found throughout the body. Examples include LSD, psilocybin, and DMT.
- Non-Classical Psychedelics: Interact with various receptors. Notable examples are ketamine and MDMA.
How do They work?
Psychedelics typically enhance serotonin, a mood-stabilizing hormone, by binding to serotonin receptors on cell surfaces, triggering specific biochemical reactions.
Research and Clinical Use: Five psychedelics—psilocybin, LSD, MDMA, ketamine, and DMT—are being extensively studied for treating mental health issues.
Regulation: The 1971 UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances regulates about 200 psychotropic substances, categorizing them into four schedules based on abuse potential, with Schedule I being the most restrictive. The convention does not specify the exact number or types classified as psychedelics.
