LSD and its Risks

LSD is short for Lysergic acid diethylamide. It is also called Acid, Lucy or Dots. LSD is a psychedelic drug and it binds to serotonin and dopamine receptors in the body.

LSD is usually available in the form of tiny pieces of paper or “Tabs” that’s infused with LSD. Pure undiluted LSD is a solid odourless crystal that’s crushed into a powder and mixed with a liquid such as water or alcohol. Blotting paper is then dipped in this solution and the result is a “Blotter Tab”. LSD is also available as tablets or in a liquid form although such forms of LSD are not very commonly used.

Effects of LSD

Upon consumption, effects of LSD start within half hour and could last upto 20 hours. The effects include intensified emotions, thoughts and heightened sensory perception. Hallucinations may be triggered by high doses of LSD and it could be both visual and aural(sound). Short term effects include but are not limited to the following:

• Increased blood pressure and heart rate
• Body temperature
• Blurred vision
• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety
• Hallucinations 
• Euphoria
• Mood swings
• Delusions
• Paranoia
• Regular use of LSD for a prolonged period of time can build a tolerance. A user will have to consume a larger quantity of LSD over time to feel the same high again.

Medical tests can detect LSD in the blood for upto 8 hours and in the hair for upto 90 days.

“Good Trip” vs “Bad Trip”

Consuming LSD can lead to either of the following effects based on several factors:

• “Good Trip” can be characterised by hallucinations with  bright sights and sensations and increased awareness.
• “Bad Trip” can be characterised by anxiety, fear, depression or negative feelings of despair and disappointment.

The effect could vary based on the dose, usage and individual.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482407/

How is it made?

LSD is derived from a fungus that infects grains like rye. It was first made by Albert Hofmann in 1938 from lysergic acid. Albert Hofmann was a Swiss chemist working for Sandoz in Basel, Switzerland. He was working on making a respiratory stimulant when he accidentally consumed the drug thereby discovering its effects.

LSD and Mental Heath

LSD has been shown to increase the risk for mental illnesses and schizophrenia in users that are predisposed to the conditions. It can either trigger an early onset or worsen these conditions in users that are vulnerable.

Risk of LSD Overdose

LSD is banned in most countries including India where the possession, consumption, sale or distribution of the drug is banned. Therefore LSD currently available in the market is made illegally and there is no way to know about the potency of the drug. High doses of LSD can result in adverse effects such as gastric bleeding, respiratory complications and coma.