Dr. Farhana Huq
Generic Name of LSD is Lysergic Acid Diethylamide which was first synthesized in 1938, is an extremely potent hallucinogen. It is synthetically made from lysergic acid, a chemical compound found in ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. It is so potent its doses tend to be in the microgram (mcg) range. LSD is illegal and declared as a Schedule 1 substance.
LSD is a mind-altering drug. It is thought LSD causes hallucinogenic effects via interaction with the serotonin receptors in the brain. The physical effects of LSD are unpredictable from person-to-person. The harmful effects include hallucinations, distorted visual perception of shapes and colors, altered sounds, anxiety and depression, flashbacks, rapid heart rate, increased body temperature and high blood pressure, and dilated pupils.
Extreme changes in mood can occur. If taken in large enough doses, the drug produces delusions and visual hallucinations. Overdose can lead to severe psychosis. Death is often happened due to a direct injury while under LSD influence; there is no known lethal dose of LSD. The physical effects can also include nausea, loss of appetite, increased blood sugar, difficulty sleeping, dry mouth, tremors and seizures. The user may also experience impaired depth and time perception, with distorted perception of the size and shape of objects, movements, color, sound, touch, and their own body image. Sensations may seem to “cross over,” giving the feeling of hearing sounds and seeing colors. These changes can be frightening and can cause panic. Some LSD users also experience severe, terrifying thoughts and feelings, fear of losing control, and fear of insanity or death. LSD users may also manifest relatively long-lasting psychoses, such as schizophrenia or severe depression.
Someone obsessed with taking the drug must obtain treatment immediately. There are several steps to take. Consulting with a healthcare provider to help direct them to reliable sources of help and monitor your progress. Talk therapy (behavioral counseling) and group counseling may be an option to help an individual understand their behaviors and why they should not continue to use LSD. Keep their appointments and follow their consultant’s treatment plan. They should consider including trusted family or friends in their treatment plan. They should exercise, eat healthfully, and control the stress level. Surrounding with supportive people can help them to gain quick recovery. Added medical therapy may be needed to treat symptoms due to drug use, such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia.
