top of page
Anahita Anais

How Different Psychedelics Function In The Brain




There is little doubt that the second psychedelic renaissance is here. Whether you are a microdosing enthusiast, seeking psychedelic-assisted therapy, or exploring expanded consciousness states, the science, research, and varieties available continue to grow rapidly although equal access remains a challenge both due to local laws and regulations, and high costs.


With the growing research and popularity of these substances, you might be wondering how they differ and which medicine is the right fit for your needs.


Leafly recently published a comprehensive article that outlines the differences between popular psychedelic medicines and their functions in the brain.


Serotonergic psychedelics


"The “classic psychedelics,” which include psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), DMT (commonly consumed in ayahuasca tea), LSD, and mescaline are all serotonergic psychedelics—these share a method of action that is strongly tied to the serotonin neurotransmitter.


"At the molecular level, psychedelics affect the activity of neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain. Neurotransmitters work as chemical messengers, relaying signals between cells in the brain with messages picked up by specific receptors.


Serotonin receptors are found all over the brain but in particularly high levels in the cerebral cortex, the region of the brain responsible for higher order functions such as perceiving, thinking, understanding language, and memory." Mescaline and dopamine receptors "Mescaline, found in cacti such as peyote and San Pedro, works on serotonin receptors too, but additionally stimulates activity in the body’s dopamine receptors. Dopamine is involved in the pleasure and reward-seeking pathways of the brain. Surges of dopamine reinforce an association between the drug and the pleasure that results, leading to addiction. In the case of mescaline, however, the stimulation of dopamine is modest, and current research suggests mescaline use does not lead to addiction or dependence." Ketamine and glutamate "However, some psychedelics work on other neurotransmitters in the brain. One of the main mechanisms of ketamine is to allow greater release and circulation of glutamate in the brain. Decreased glutamate levels have been associated with depression. “Ketamine produces some similar effects to the classical psychedelics, but through a different mechanism,” explained Robison. “Ketamine works by blocking glutamate receptors.” The suppression of these receptors allows glutamate to surge into the brain, activating neural activity, enhancing communication between brain cells, and forming connections between different regions of the brain. “The result is rapid improvement in mood,” said Robison. “It’s like you’re waking up dormant neurons as you’d do by jumpstarting a car battery, letting the neurons fire and freely communicate again.”"


Comments


Microdosingprotocols

Our Customized Health Optimization Plans

Neutral Aesthetic Online Course Testimonial Instagram Post.png

Nervous System Fitness® with Psychedelics

MindfulMicrodosing.png

Our 6-week Online Self-Paced Program

Enhance & Optimize Your Mental Health

Our Expert-Crafted Solutions

DISCLAIMER

The perspectives and recommendations on this website are not made by a medical professional and should not be considered medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult their physician before taking any supplements or substances. 

 

While we believe that psychedelic medicines must be decriminalized, psychedelic substances are still considered  "Schedule I" substances in the US and continue to be subject to strong enforcement across nearly all states. The reader is responsible for checking their local rules and regulations and making informed decisions with all risk considerations. Microdose Guru does accept liability for its readers' personal choices. We are a strictly educational platform. 

bottom of page