LSD

LSD is a powerful hallucinogen manufactured from lysergic acid found in certain rye fungus. It has no medical use.

Acid, Dots, Lucy, Mellow Yellow, Tab, Trips, Window Pane

LSD is odorless and colorless. It is commonly sold in tablet and capsule form. Liquid LSD is often added to absorbent paper and sold as small decorated squares.

LSD is taken orally.

LSD can provide a psychological “trip” for individuals looking to temporarily abandon their reality and relieve stress or boredom. It affects users by distorting colors, sounds and shapes, which can provide a sense of excitement but can also endanger the mind and body.

LSD is a particularly dangerous hallucinogen because it impairs individuals’ sense of sight, hearing, and touch, making them more likely to engage in risky behaviors that can harm users and those around them. LSD also causes volatile mood swings and may lead to panic attacks or depression shortly after use. Even after one-time use, LSD can cause unwanted flashbacks months later, but other health issues may emerge if the drug is taken over time.

Repeated LSD misuse can lead to addiction and health problems, including:

• Delusions
• Depression
• Impaired vision
• Panic attacks
• Schizophrenia
• Cardiovascular collapse

Continuous LSD misuse can cause the brain to become reliant on the drug. Those who suffer from LSD addiction experience physical and behavioral changes, such as:

Psychological Symptoms

• Fear
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Extreme relaxation

Physical Signs

• Tremors
• Weight loss
• Profuse sweating
• Tingling fingers or toes

An overdose or “bad trip” occurs when an individual takes a toxic amount of LSD. It is impossible to determine what dosage will lead to an overdose, as an individual’s overall health status greatly affects this. Because LSD wreaks havoc on the brain, a “bad trip” is not only physically dangerous but also psychologically dangerous, and can even lead to suicidal and homicidal thoughts.

• Vomiting
• Flushed skin
• Muscle shakes
• High body temperature
• Seizures
• Diarrhea
• Rapid heart rate
• Excessive sweating

Individuals who experience an overdose require immediate medical attention, as some symptoms of an LSD overdose cannot be seen, such as blood clots and internal bleeding.

LSD Detox

To be able to effectively address the impact that addiction has had, individuals must first stop using LSD. While medically-monitored detox is not required for LSD addiction, individuals often experience dangerous psychological effects when they discontinue regular use. As a result, it is recommended that individuals go through this process under the supervision of a health professional.

WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

• Shakes
• Hearing loss
• Loss of motor skills
• Double vision
• Rapid breathing
• Loss of coordination

While LSD addiction certainly affects physical health, its psychological impact is often more severe. Individuals should follow a comprehensive treatment plan once their body has detoxified. Drug counseling is available for individuals with an LSD dependency in the form of inpatient/residential treatment and outpatient treatment. Both options help individuals address mental health concerns, identify co-occurring disorders, manage emotions and effectively respond to setbacks, and provide them with relapse prevention tools.