Psychotomimetics

Psychotomimetics (psychoto mimetica; from the words psychosis and the Greek mimetikos - capable of imitation, imitating) are a group of psychoactive substances that can cause symptoms in humans that resemble mental disorders, such as hallucinations, depersonalization and derealization.

Psychotomimetics include some hallucinogens, in particular LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, DMT and others. When healthy people use these substances, they can experience psychotic states similar to schizophrenia, which gives them the name “psychosis mimicking.”

The effects of psychotomimetics are due to their ability to act on serotonin receptors in the brain. Changes in serotonergic neurotransmission lead to disturbances in the perception of reality.

Psychotomimetics are widely used in scientific research to model psychotic states and study the mechanisms of development of schizophrenia and other mental illnesses.

Psychotomimetics (psychoto mimetica; psychosis + Greek mimetikos capable of imitation, imitating) are a group of psychoactive substances that cause symptoms similar to those of mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Psychotomimetics include some hallucinogens, particularly LSD, psilocybin and mescaline.

Taking psychotomimetics can lead to hallucinations, disturbances in thinking and perception of reality. A person loses the ability to distinguish his thoughts and feelings from objective reality. Delusions and paranoia may occur. The effects of psychotomimetics are similar to those of schizophrenia and other mental disorders.

Although some psychotomimetics are being studied for possible use in psychotherapy, their use carries serious risks. Uncontrolled use of psychotomimetics can provoke long-term psychotic states even in mentally healthy people.