What is LSD?

It stands for Lysergic Acid Diethylamide, the most powerful conscious-altering substance known to man.

Made from a fungus called ergot, LSD was first made in 1938 by two chemists from Switzerland, Albert Hofmann and Arthur Stoll. Its hallucinogenic properties were discovered when one of them accidentally ingested some of the drug they had created.

The Basics

What it is, what does it look like, how is purity determined, how is it taken?

Lysergic Acid Diethylamide ("LSD") is a hallucinogenic drug. It is available in liquid or tablet form, on a piece of paper or a sugar cube. LSD is taken orally, and has a slightly bitter taste. It is sometimes called acid, boomer, or Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. Learn more about the basics... of using LSD.

Effects of LSD

What it does, the physical and mental effects while high, what happens in the brain, after-effects of using LSD.

LSD produces hallucinations and there is no way to anticipate whether the "trip" will be a good or a bad one prior to use. A trip can last for several hours. This drug also makes the pupils dilate, increases heart rate and blood pressure, and causes dryness in the mouth. Insomnia and tremors are common effects of LSD use. Some users feel paranoid or anxious while under the influence. Learn more about the effects... of doing LSD.

LSD Dosage and Amounts Taken

How much LSD will cause an overdose? What is a lethal dose of the drug?

It's difficult to judge the dosage you are receiving when you buy LSD, since the potency will depend on the batch made. The average amount taken at one time is approximately 60 micrograms.

Dangers and Long-Term Effects of LSD Abuse

Risk of overdose, what are flasbacks, what are the long term effects of use?

LSD users may experience flashbacks to previous trips after they have come down from a trip. Flashbacks may continue for up to 12 months after use. They may also develop severe depression or schizophrenia as a result of LSD use. Learn more about the dangers and long term effects... of LSD abuse.

LSD Addiction and Tolerance

How addictive is it? Is addiction a myth? Do I have a problem? Signs and symptoms of LSD abuse and dependency.

LSD is not addictive, since it doesn't act on the user's brain in the same way cocaine or meth does. Over time, a person will develop a tolerance for the drug and will need to take larger doses to experience a trip. Learn more about LSD addiction... and the effects of long-term use.

LSD Overdose Symptoms, Signs, and What to Do

What are the signs of an overdose? What to do if you spot symptoms of an LSD overdose.

Overdose is not really an issue with LSD, but it is possible to harm yourself because of irrational thoughts that may arise from using the drug. Some people think they can fly and actually act on that thought.

It is recommended you call your local emergency line if you or someone you are with is possibly experiencing an OD. For a list of US poison control centers and addiction resources visit our drug emergencies resource page. Once the emergency is neutralized, please consider seeking treatment.

Mixing with Other Drugs

What are the effects of mixing LSD with alcohol, amphetamines, cannabis, ecstasy (MDMA), heroin, magic mushrooms, tobacco and other drugs?

Mixing LSD with other stimulants may increase your odds of having a bad trip. Mixing this drug with ketamine is not a good idea, since this combination increases disorientation. Learn more about mixing... LSD and other substances.

Drug Tests and Detox

What are the detection times? How long does LSD stay in my system? Will I pass an LSD drug test?

LSD is not usually tested for in standard drug tests. It will show up in a urine test for up to three days after use. As for LSD detox, it should be supervised by trained personnel for safety reasons. Learn more about LSD drug testing and how long it takes to detox... from LSD.

Legality, The Laws of Possession, Use, and Distribution

Is LSD illegal? I got caught with LSD, am I going to jail? How long are sentences for LSD dealers; what about just possession for recreational use? Is it a felony?

LSD is a Schedule 1 Drug in the United States and is illegal to possess, distribute or buy. In the United Kingdom, LSD is also a Schedule 1 drug, which means it is illegal to possess, buy or sell it without a license. Learn more about the legal and criminal aspects... of the drug.

Spiritual or Medicinal Use

Can LSD be used for purposes other than recreational, like spiritual or medicinal?

There is no legitimate medical use for LSD.

In the Media

LSD in the news

It has been decades since LSD played a prominent part in the psychedelic movement of the 60s, but the drug nevertheless continues to receive considerable press coverage. Below are some examples of media attention heaped on the drug.

Air in Madrid and Barcelona Contains Cocaine and LSD - Finding Dulcinea
Umass Student Busted for Pot, LSD and Hashish - ABC40TV

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LSD poisonous? What are flashbacks? Can LSD put holes in your brain?

A number of questions are commonly asked about LSD and its effects, its origins. From the ordinary and logical line of questions to the often bizarre, we present answers to questions... about this drug.

Sample questions posed by visitors to the site:

» Will LSD make me want to jump out of the window?

» Is it safe to take LSD during pregnancy?

» Will I become perma-fried if I take LSD too much?

Offsite Links

» lsd@erowid massive resource

LSD Photos

See more: Drug Photos » Hallucinogens » LSD Photos

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