Which neurotransmitter is specifically associated with hallucinogens?

The association of glutamate with hallucinogens is grounded in the effects these substances have on the brain. Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and plays a crucial role in various mental processes, including cognition, learning, and memory.

Hallucinogens, such as LSD and PCP, notably interact with glutamate receptors, particularly the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor. This interaction can lead to altered perception, mood changes, and cognitive distortions typical of hallucinogenic experiences. In essence, the modulation of glutamate signaling is a significant factor in the hallucinogenic effects observed with these substances.

In contrast, while anandamide, GABA, and dopamine do have important roles in the brain related to various functions, their connections to hallucinogens are not as direct or prominent as that of glutamate.