Psychotilics

Psychotilics is not a widely used term in pharmacology or psychiatry. In most scholarly contexts, the substances are referred to as psychedelics or hallucinogens. For purposes of this article, psychotilics denotes psychedelic substances that produce altered perception, mood, and cognition, typically through serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonism.

Classic psychedelics include lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin and psilocin from certain mushrooms, mescaline from the peyote cactus, and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). A broader category also encompasses various synthetic compounds and natural tryptamines with similar effects. Many of these substances are fast-acting, with effects evolving over several hours.

Historical use is recorded in indigenous ceremonial contexts, and Western research into psychedelic-assisted therapy began in the mid-20th century and experienced a decline after regulatory restrictions. In recent years, controlled clinical trials have investigated psychedelics as adjuncts to psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, end-of-life distress, and substance use disorders.

Pharmacologically, most psychedelics act as agonists at the 5-HT2A receptor, altering cortical connectivity and sensory processing. The subjective experience is influenced by dose, the individual's mental state, and the environment, often summarized as set and setting. Physical toxicity is relatively low, but acute psychological reactions can be distressing and risk is higher for individuals with certain psychiatric histories or when combined with certain drugs.

Legal status varies widely. In many jurisdictions, classic psychedelics are controlled substances, though research exemptions exist and some places have decriminalized or legalized supervised clinical use. Ongoing research aims to clarify therapeutic potential, safety profiles, and optimal treatment protocols.