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Substance education guide

Mescaline

3,4,5-Trimethoxyphenethylamine · Classical Psychedelic

Representative photo of MescalineWhat it looks like
Image: YubKooka · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Appearance varies; illicit products may look different or be counterfeit.

01 · How it works

Origins & Action

Mescaline is a substituted phenethylamine and partial agonist at 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors with additional adrenergic activity. It has a delayed onset and can last 10 to 14 hours.

02 · Immediate effects

Recognize the effects

Signs of Use

  • Dilated pupils and increased heart rate
  • Color enhancement and visual drifting
  • Nausea or vomiting during onset
  • Tremors, sweating, or muscle tension
  • Altered time and synesthesia

Short Term

  • Geometric visuals and emotional processing
  • Mild stimulant-like alertness
  • Tachycardia and blood pressure elevation
  • Prolonged sensory changes
  • Panic or paranoia

Long Term

  • Persistent visual disturbances
  • Possible psychosis or mania in vulnerable people
  • Rapid cross-tolerance with LSD and psilocybin
  • No typical physical dependence or withdrawal

03 · Long-term consequences

Cardiovascular and psychiatric risk

The main dangers include prolonged vomiting, cardiovascular stress, dehydration, and acute psychological crisis.

Medical emergency

Identifying an emergency

Chest pain, irregular rhythm, hyperthermia, seizures, severe dehydration, or violent agitation require 911.

Critical: Lithium and classical psychedelics can increase seizure risk
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