The term "hallucinogens" refers to many different psychoactive drugs including: acid (LSD), mushrooms (psilocybin), peyote (mescaline), PCP, and Ecstasy (MDMA). Some forms of marijuana, in particular "hash," also have hallicinogenic properties. Hallucinogens get their name from the fact that they cause the user to "hallucinate" or see things that others cannot see.

Here are some things about hallicinogens to consider:

Know the law. Hallucinogens are illegal to sell, buy, or possess.

Get the facts. Hallucinogenic drugs distort your perception of reality. Hallucinogens cause your sense of space and time to become distorted and cause you to see objects that aren't really there.

Stay informed. Some people don't realize that you can develop a tolerance to hallucinogens so that it takes more and more of the drug each time to get the same effect. This is dangerous because taking more and more of the same drug may lead to an overdose with severe effects.

Know the risks. Hallucinogens can cause flashbacks. Effects of the drugs, including hallucinations and paranoia, can occur weeks, months, even years after use. Hallucinogens can also cause you to do things that may be unsafe. This is actually one of the greatest risks of hallucinogens.

Look around you. The majority of teens are not using hallucinogens. According to a national 1999 study, only 1 percent of teens use hallucinogens regularly and 94 percent of teens had never even tried them.

What can you do to help someone who is using hallucinogens? Be a real friend. Encourage your friend to stop or seek professional help.