Difference between a psychoactive and pyschedelic?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the differences between psychoactive and psychedelic substances, exploring their definitions, effects on the brain, and the roles of neurotransmitters like serotonin and adrenaline. Participants delve into the classifications of substances and the nuances of their effects, including the distinction between hallucinogens and stimulants.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the roles of serotonin and norepinephrine in the context of psychoactive substances, suggesting a potential overlap in their functions.
  • Another participant clarifies that not all neurons have serotonin receptors and distinguishes between adrenaline and noradrenaline, noting their different functions.
  • There is a claim that MDMA (XTC) is psychedelic but does not produce hallucinations, leading to further discussion on its classification as a hallucinogen or stimulant.
  • Some participants express confusion regarding the relationship between adrenaline and norepinephrine, with one noting that they are produced in the same glands and have similar functions.
  • Clarifications are made regarding the terminology of adrenaline and epinephrine, as well as noradrenaline and norepinephrine, emphasizing their roles as both hormones and neurotransmitters.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the classification of MDMA and its effects, indicating that there is no consensus on whether it should be categorized strictly as a psychedelic or a stimulant. Additionally, there is some disagreement regarding the functions and classifications of neurotransmitters.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of psychoactive and psychedelic substances, as well as the specific roles of neurotransmitters in different contexts. The scientific literature appears to have varying classifications, which contributes to the ongoing debate.

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Anybody know what's the difference between a psychoactive and psychdellic substances?

Our body produces Serotonin and Adrenaline naturally. Seratonin and Noradrenaline act on the mind,brain,and neurons.I'm sort of understandong, Serotonin keeps us awake and wakes us up. Adrenalines takes us to our highest level of performance or energy.

When we take Psychoactives do thy take the role or Serotonin or Noreadrenaline? I know all the neurons have Serotonin receptors. DO they have Adrenaline ones?
 
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First, no, all neurons do NOT have serotonin receptors, only those that are part of the serotonergic system. Second, adrenaline and noradrenaline are TWO DIFFERENT substances, often with opposing functions. Yes, there are neurons with adrenergic and/or noradrenergic receptors, some of which will also have serotonin receptors and some not.

However, I'm not sure where that fits into your first question.

A psychoACTIVE substance refers to anything that affects you psychologically; in other words, has an effect on parts of the brain influencing behavior. Psychedelic substances are within a class of drugs also known as hallucinogens. They produce hallucinations, as the name implies, and in particular, certain types of visual hallucinations.
 
XTC is Psychedelic and doesn't produce hallucinations.


I though Adrenaline and noreadrenaline where about the same and made in the same glands. Just like Adrenaline is almoat Epinephrine.
 
Velociter said:
XTC is Psychedelic and doesn't produce hallucinations.
The scientific literature waivers back and forth on this. Some classify MDMA as a hallucinogen, and others avoid that term and just stick with calling it a stimulant.

I though Adrenaline and noreadrenaline where about the same and made in the same glands. Just like Adrenaline is almoat Epinephrine.
Adrenaline and epinephrine are the same compound, just two different names for it. Noradrenaline and norepinephrine are also two names for one compound. And, yes, both are produced by the adrenal gland to act in an endocrine fashion. However, they are also produced in neurons, and have distinct functions as neurotransmitters different from what goes on out in the rest of the body.
 

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