Psychoactive Chemicals
LSD overactivates the brain, the tranquilizers calm nervepulse activity. For example, phenobarbital is used medically in the treatment of anxiety and tension states, but excessive doses of the drug may even induce tension and anxiety. The amphetamines, such Benzedrine, can induce mild euphoria, increased alertness, and eviation of fatigue; but they can also cause insomnia, even convultions. People who become heavily involved in the amphetamine "speed scene" may become violence prone. They may go on a run lasting for several days and then collapse in total exhaustion. The addicted amphetamine user seems to live only in the "now," as the past and the future recede from his mind.
