Mescaline

Type
Psychoactive
Legal status
Class A
Legal implications
Penalty for possession: Up to seven years in prison and / or an unlimited fine.
Penalty for dealing: Up to life in prison and / or an unlimited fine.
Synonyms
  • 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine
Information

A hallucinogenic phenylethylamine, structurally similar to amphetamine, derived from the peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii) and the San Pedro cactus (Trichocereus pachanoi). Mescaline is also synthetically manufactured.

Death data

Few fatal cases have been reported (Reynolds & Jindrich, 1985, Nolte & Zumwalt, 1999), although suicidal thoughts can develop.

Short term effects

Hallucinogenic effects similar to those of LSD may occur. Nausea, vomiting (which may be forceful), and abdominal cramps are common, usually occurring within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion and before onset of hallucinogenic effects. Tachycardia (bradycardia with large doses), mild hypertension, rarely palpitations and chest pain.

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