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What is LSD?

Updated: Jun 8

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a potent hallucinogen, synthesized from lysergic acid, a substance derived from ergot, a fungus that infects rye and other grains. It belongs to a class of drugs known as psychedelics, which are known to alter perception, mood, and thought. Despite its origins and historical medicinal use, LSD is currently classified as a Schedule I drug in many countries, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and is not accepted for medical use in the U.S.


This article will explain the uses, effects, potential benefits and associated risks of LSD. Just as a disclaimer, we do not advocate the use or LSD nor claim to be medical professionals. All the information we make public is to be used strictly for educational purposes and we encourage you to do your own due diligence and consult with your main medical wellness practitioner if you're considering utilizing LSD in your mental healthcare treatment.


Street Names:LSD is commonly referred to as "Acid," "Blotter Acid," "Dots," "Mellow Yellow," "Lucy," and "Window Pane." These names reference its different forms and delivery methods, which include blotter paper, sugar cubes, tablets, or liquid form.


How is LSD Used?

LSD is primarily taken orally, either swallowed in tablet or blotter form, or dissolved under the tongue. Its potency means that only small doses are needed to produce significant effects. LSD can also be injected, sniffed, or smoked, though these methods are far less common.


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Effects of LSD on the Body and Mind

LSD primarily alters perception, mood, and cognitive processes. The effects of LSD can vary significantly depending on dosage, the user's state of mind, and the environment, however, generally users report the following:

  • Visual and auditory hallucinations: These can involve seeing vivid colors, patterns, or objects that aren’t there and experiencing cross-over sensory perceptions, such as "hearing" colors or "seeing" sounds (synesthesia).

  • Distorted sense of time and space: Time may feel elongated or compressed, and objects may appear to change shape, size, or color.

  • Emotional fluctuations: LSD can induce a sense of euphoria, heightened emotional connection, and even profound spiritual or philosophical insights. However, it can also lead to feelings of paranoia, fear, or depression, especially during a "bad trip."

  • Altered self-perception: Users may feel disconnected from their body or identity, leading to what is called "ego dissolution."


LSD can also causes physical changes, including:

  • Dilated pupils

  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure

  • Sweating or chills

  • Loss of appetite

  • Dry mouth

  • Tremors

  • Headaches and nausea

  • Insomnia


These effects are usually mild but can become more pronounced with larger doses or during a particularly intense experience.


Dosage and Duration

LSD is measured in micrograms (mcg), and even a small amount—between 100-150 mcg—can produce powerful effects. The drug typically begins to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, with the "trip" lasting 8 to 12 hours. Research from a clinical trial conducted by Liechti et al. (2017) confirmed that LSD’s effects peak between 2 to 4 hours after administration, with intensity gradually decreasing thereafter.


In recent years, microdosing—taking very small amounts of LSD (usually around 10-20 mcg)—has gained popularity. Proponents claim that microdosing enhances creativity, focus, and mood without inducing a full-blown trip. A 2019 study by Johnstad found that participants reported improvements in mood, cognition, and energy levels when microdosing LSD, supporting claims of its potential cognitive and emotional benefits without the intense hallucinogenic effects associated with larger doses. However, these results remain anecdotal, and further research is necessary to fully understand microdosing's long-term impact.


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Potential Benefits of LSD

Despite its legal status, recent research has reignited interest in the potential therapeutic uses of LSD. Clinical studies from the mid-20th century, along with modern research, suggest that LSD may be beneficial in several areas:

  1. Treatment for Depression and Anxiety: A 2020 study by Holze et al. explored the use of LSD in patients with depression and found that even a single dose significantly reduced depressive symptoms, with effects lasting up to two weeks post-treatment. Another study by Griffiths et al. (2016) focused on patients with terminal cancer, showing that LSD-assisted therapy helped reduce existential distress and anxiety related to their condition.

  2. Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders: A 2021 study conducted by Barrett et al. investigated the impact of LSD on alcohol dependence, showing that participants who received LSD-assisted psychotherapy reported reduced alcohol consumption and improved mental clarity. Similarly, a 2020 study by Garcia-Romeu et al. demonstrated that LSD therapy promoted self-reflection, which helped participants address the emotional roots of their substance use.

  3. Cluster Headaches: A 2021 case series by Karst et al. examined patients with chronic cluster headaches who were administered microdoses of LSD. The study reported that the majority of participants experienced a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of their headaches.


Risks of LSD

While LSD does not typically cause physical dependence, it carries a range of psychological risks, particularly when used irresponsibly or in unsafe settings.

  1. Bad Trips: A "bad trip" can be a terrifying experience. It may involve intense anxiety, paranoia, and disturbing hallucinations, leading to panic or dangerous behaviors, such as self-harm.

  2. Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD): Some users report experiencing flashbacks or recurrences of certain aspects of their LSD trip, even months or years after the drug was last taken. These flashbacks are usually brief but can be distressing.

  3. Triggering Mental Health Issues: LSD can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions, including anxiety, schizophrenia, and psychosis. People with a personal or family history of these conditions should avoid using LSD.

  4. Overdose: While LSD overdose is rare, taking large amounts of the drug can lead to prolonged, more intense "trip" episodes, increasing the risk of psychological harm, such as paranoia or psychosis. Deaths directly caused by LSD are extremely rare but can occur indirectly through accidents or dangerous behaviors during a trip.


Long-Term Effects

While many users report positive experiences with LSD, long-term use can lead to persistent psychological issues. Regular use of LSD can result in:

  • Tolerance: Over time, users build a tolerance to LSD, meaning they need to take more to achieve the same effects. However, tolerance fades after a few days of abstinence.

  • Flashbacks: As mentioned, flashbacks can occur even after long periods of abstinence, especially in users who took LSD frequently.


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LSD and Mental Health

Though LSD can worsen pre-existing mental health conditions, research suggests that, in a controlled therapeutic setting, it may help treat certain psychiatric disorders. For instance, a 2016 study conducted by Gasser et al. explored the use of LSD-assisted psychotherapy in patients with anxiety related to life-threatening illnesses. The study found that participants experienced significant reductions in anxiety and improved overall well-being, with these effects lasting for 12 months post-treatment.


Another clinical trial by Carhart-Harris et al. in 2017 examined the effects of LSD on treatment-resistant depression and found that participants who received controlled doses of LSD experienced reduced depressive symptoms and improved mood stability. These studies highlight the potential of LSD, when administered in controlled environments with professional guidance, to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.


Mixing LSD with Other Substances

Combining LSD with other substances, including alcohol and prescription drugs, can have unpredictable and dangerous consequences:

  • LSD + MDMA (Ecstasy): Combining LSD and MDMA can intensify both drugs, leading to heightened euphoria and sensory experiences, but also increasing the risk of anxiety, panic attacks, or overheating. This combination can be overwhelming and may cause hyperthermia or psychological distress.

  • LSD + Alcohol: Alcohol dulls the effects of LSD, leading users to consume more of both substances, increasing the risk of blackouts, poor judgment, and dangerous behaviors. This combination can result in dehydration, memory loss, and heightened vulnerability to accidents.

  • LSD + Cannabis: Cannabis can enhance LSD's hallucinogenic effects, but may also increase paranoia, anxiety, or disorientation. Users might experience heightened confusion and detachment from reality, leading to risky behavior.

  • LSD + Cocaine: Cocaine’s stimulant effects combined with LSD can lead to increased heart rate, anxiety, and agitation. This mix raises the risk of heart complications and aggressive or erratic behavior.

  • LSD + Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines may reduce the intensity of an LSD trip but can lead to cognitive impairment and confusion. In some cases, this combination is used to "come down" from a trip, but it carries the risk of sedation and respiratory depression.

  • LSD + Antidepressants (SSRIs): SSRIs can blunt the effects of LSD, requiring higher doses to feel the drug’s impact, which increases the risk of overdose. Mixing the two can also lead to serotonin syndrome, a dangerous condition characterized by agitation and high blood pressure.

  • LSD + Opioids: Combining LSD with opioids can result in sedation, confusion, and a high risk of respiratory depression or overdose. This mix can be life-threatening, especially with potent opioids like fentanyl.


Conclusion: Is LSD Safe?

While LSD is not physically addictive, its psychological effects can be intense and unpredictable. For those considering using LSD, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits. Its legal status and the risks associated with misuse make it essential to approach with caution. If you choose to partake, ensure that LSD is used in a controlled, safe setting, and avoid mixing it with other substances.


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