Question

118. Hallucinogens are best defi ned as:

(A) Psychoactive drugs that produce strange and unusual perceptual,
sensory, and cognitive experiences
(B) Stimulants that produce arousals both physically and psychologically
(C) Designer drugs that cause three primary eff ects, pain reduction,
euphoria, and tolerance
(D) Mild depressants that decrease heart rate and blood pressure
(E) Drugs that stimulate the central nervous system

Answer 1

Option (A), Hallucinogens are psychoactive drugs that cause profound alterations in perception, including vivid hallucinations and emotional swings, with classic examples like LSD and mescaline.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hallucinogens are best defined as psychoactive drugs that produce strange and unusual perceptual, sensory, and cognitive experiences, as described in option (A) of the student's question. These substances can lead to profound alterations in sensory and perceptual experiences, often including vivid hallucinations and altered perception of reality.

They may also cause intense emotional swings and affect one's sense of time. Classic hallucinogens include substances like LSD and mescaline, while dissociative drugs, which also cause hallucinations and emotional swings, include drugs such as PCP.

Empathogens, such as MDMA, differ from hallucinogens as they tend to produce feelings of empathy rather than hallucinations. It's important to note that psychoactive drugs can fall into multiple categories including stimulants, depressants, and more, but hallucinogens are specifically known for their perception-altering effects.