Side effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
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Acute Psychological and Physical Side Effects of LSD
LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is known for causing strong changes in consciousness, including visual hallucinations, audiovisual synesthesia, feelings of derealization and depersonalization, and changes in mood such as increased well-being, happiness, openness, and trust. However, it can also cause anxiety, panic, confusion, and psychosis-like symptoms, especially at higher doses or in vulnerable individuals Schmid2015Holze2020Kopra2022+2 MORE. Some people may experience intense panic, suicidal thoughts, or psychosis, but these are rare in controlled clinical settings . Most psychological side effects are short-lived and resolve within hours, but a small number of users may have lingering issues for weeks .
Autonomic and Physical Side Effects of LSD
LSD use can lead to physical side effects such as increased blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, pupil dilation, tremor, nausea, and sweating. These effects are generally mild to moderate and subside within a few days Schmid2015Holze2020Salvatore1956+1 MORE. LSD also increases levels of certain hormones and steroids in the blood, such as cortisol, cortisone, corticosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone, which are linked to the body’s stress response Schmid2015Strajhar2016. At low doses (microdosing), LSD is well tolerated, with no significant impairment in cognition, balance, or proprioception, and the frequency of adverse events is similar to placebo .
Dose-Dependent Effects and Risk Factors
The intensity and duration of LSD’s effects increase with higher doses. Doses above 100 micrograms are more likely to cause ego dissolution and significant anxiety, while lower doses (25–100 micrograms) produce milder effects . The risk of adverse psychological reactions is higher in younger users, those with mental health conditions, and those who use LSD frequently . The environment and mindset (“set and setting”) play a major role in whether someone has a positive or negative experience .
Long-Term and Rare Side Effects
While most side effects are acute and resolve quickly, rare cases of persistent psychosis or long-term psychological issues have been reported, mainly in uncontrolled or recreational use Beutler2024Das2016. LSD is not considered addictive, but tolerance can develop with repeated use .
Conclusion
LSD produces a range of psychological and physical side effects, most of which are short-lived and mild to moderate in intensity. The most common side effects include visual hallucinations, mood changes, anxiety, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. Serious or long-lasting adverse effects are rare, especially in controlled clinical settings. Proper screening, preparation, and supervision can further reduce the risks associated with LSD use.
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