There’s a good chance that anyone reading this story has genuine interest in psychedelics. And there’s an even greater chances you’ve already done psychedelics.
And now you want to know what was happening in your brain that made you feel connected with some ethereal entity.
So let’s talk about the neuroanatomy of a psychedelic trip. Specifically what happens in your brain when you take a psychedelic. You’ll learn a lot, I promise.
The Role Of Neuroreceptors
If you’re familiar with the term ‘serotonin receptors’ then you’re already on your way. The majority of psychedelics you see today are serotonergic agonists.
Which means they bind to serotonin receptors, or 5-HT2A receptors in your brain. This applies to the usual cast of characters: psilocybin, LSD, DMT, also known as tryptamines.
The Neuroanatomy Of A Psychedelic Trip: Not All Psychedelics Are Serotonergic Agonists
The psychedelic ketamine operates on an entirely different neurochemical process.
While most psychedelics embrace receptors, ketamine does the opposite and works as an antagonist, or a receptor blocker.
This Is An Important Distinction Considering That Ketamine Is The Only Federally Legal Psychedelic
You can actually get a shot of Spravato, a ketamine inhaler, at a ketamine clinic.
All of these receptors (5-HT2, DA, and NMDA) are part of the monoamine system, a group in which nearly all psychedelics fall under.
Swipe up to learn more.