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Hallucinogens are a class of psychoactive drugs that cause hallucinations, perceptual anomalies, and other substantial subjective changes in thoughts, emotion, and consciousness. The term hallucination, in a clinical context, refers to a sensory experience that occurs in the absence of an external stimulus. Hallucinogens are generally distinguished from other mind-altering drugs by their primary effects on perception and cognition, rather than primarily on motor control or mood.

These substances can be categorized based on their chemical structure and the neurotransmitter systems they affect. Common examples include psilocybin (found in "magic mushrooms"), lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), mescaline, and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). They are often derived from plants or fungi, though synthetic versions also exist.

The effects of hallucinogens can vary widely depending on the specific substance, dosage, individual psychology, and setting in which they are used. Users may experience altered perceptions of time, sight, sound, and touch. They might also encounter profound introspection, spiritual experiences, or intense emotional states. The duration of these effects can range from a few hours to over a day.

Historically, hallucinogenic substances have been used in various cultural and religious rituals. In modern times, they are sometimes explored in therapeutic settings for conditions like depression or PTSD, though this is still an area of ongoing research and is not widely legalized. The recreational use of hallucinogens carries potential risks, including psychological distress, anxiety, and in rare cases, the emergence of persistent perceptual disorders. Their legal status varies significantly across different jurisdictions.