Psychomimetic

Psychomimetic is a term used to describe the pharmacological effects of a drug which mimic the psychological effects of a mental disorder. This may include anxiety, confusion, disorientation, agitation, and delusional behavior. These effects are not necessarily caused by the presence of a mental disorder, but instead are the result of the pharmacological properties of the drug. For example, the psychomimetic effects of LSD are commonly experienced by users of the drug and can include heightened sensory awareness, a distorted sense of time, and altered perception of reality. Psychomimetics can also be used therapeutically, such as antipsychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia. These drugs can reduce the intensity of symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, while preserving the patient's cognitive functions.