This volume brings together the latest basic and clinical research examining the effects and underlying mechanisms of psychedelic drugs. Examples of drugs within this group include LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline. Despite their structural differences, these compounds produce remarkably similar experiences in humans and share a common mechanism of action.  Commonalities among the substances in this family are addressed both at the clinical and phenomenological level and at the basic neurobiological mechanism level. To the extent possible, contributions relate the clinical and preclinical findings to one another across species. The volume addresses both the risks associated with the use of these drugs and the potential medical benefits that might be associated with these and related compounds.

Preface

Chemistry and structure-activity relationships of psychedelics
Hallucinogens and serotonin 5-HT2A receptor-mediated signaling pathways
Effects of hallucinogens on neuronal activity
Interactions of Hallucinogens with the Glutamatergic System:  Permissive Network Effects Mediated Through Cortical Layer V Pyramidal Neurons
The effects of hallucinogens on gene expression
Effect of Hallucinogens on Unconditioned Behavior
Hallucinogens in Drug Discrimination
Phenomenology, structure and dynamic of psychedelic states
Serotonergic hallucinogen-induced visual perceptual alterations
New world tryptamine hallucinogens and the neuroscience of ayahuasca
Experimental psychosis research and schizophrenia - similarities and dissimilarities in psychopathology
A review of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) and an exploratory study of subjects claiming symptoms of HPPD
Therapeutic applications of classic hallucinogens
Classic Hallucinogens and Mystical Experiences: Phenomenology and Neural Correlates.