As a neurologist then, what are your observations on long-term/short-term use of various drugs? What 'pops' as interesting on the neurological level??
This sounds like an interesting discussion subject. In all the trials I've participated and read about there are many substances that always amaze me:
1. DMT - although the drug has no significant effect on the body, the mind is clearly and indisputably changed after even one use. We've had 100% addiction recovery from strong heroin, coke and other substance abusers after 2-3 sessions of DMT. Even thou the physical withdraw symptoms were present, all subjects reported no mental anguish or strong desire to reuse the addicting substances.
It's still a mistery how exactly a sudden change like this can occur. Most of my colleages believe this is caused by a "short circuit" between dopamine releasing neurons and other simple stimulants, meaning that the patient no longer needs to use endorphine-like compounds to release dopamine. In time, the short circuit changes to normal and dopamine secretion respects normal levels and frequencies.
I personally would administer DMT to all addicts and to all patients who tend to show mild or intermediate phycotic symptoms, except for schyzofrenics, where I still have my doubts.
I know of ony one uncomfortable issue regarding DMT. In high quantities (over 0.7mg/kg) it will cause very nasty effects and may even induce spontanous labour and heart attack in patients with cardiovascular problems (Blood pressure rises over 180/120 for a normal person). This is why 0.4mh/kg is the highest I'd recommend if you do an IV. Otherwise, 40-50mg smoked is also good.
2. LSD - The following sentance may be hard to swallow: LSD actively and unquestionably increases IQ. Amazingly, it has an incredible effect on brain cell growth and on synapse formation. Reflexes are also heightened by the use of LSD.
The only adverse effect of LSD appears when administered too frequently. Daily use may cause depression, because the constant rise and fall of serotonin will affect brain chemistry. Weekly use is perfectly safe.
3. Methamphetamines - one of the strangest drugs on the market. It's use will drastically affect brain functions. We did organize a trial using this substance and ended up wishing that we wouldn't have. It is remarcably addictive. Occasional use of small quantities is very stimulating, compared to some 3-5 cups of coffee.
I would recommend you NEVER touch this stuff. A "regular" dose will cause severe insomnia, high blood pressure and over time will lead to deep phycosis, halucinations and a deformed perception of reality that can be, in few cases permanent.
The biggest problem with this drug is the shut down of the hypotalamus. Regular use leads to sleeplessness. No sleep for 2 weeks puts your body and mind under the strangest stress due to lack of REM sleep. Eventually your hypotalamus shuts down resulting in fever, halucinations, lack of interest in food, sex or sleep. If this continues, in 6 months - 1 year you are mentally dead. Coma is sure to set in after 1 year of heavy meth use, where the subject refuses to sleep or eat.
