Long Term Effects of LSD: Using the drug LSD for an extended period of time can cause long-term effects on a person’s body. The effects of LSD can lead to LSD abuse, self-harm, or accidents, and potentially other adverse effects as highlighted in various studies. It is important to be aware of the risks of using LSD before taking it.
Hallucinogenic Drugs
Hallucinogens are a group of drugs that cause hallucinations and cause changes to a person’s psychosis. They can be found in some plants including mushrooms or they can be man made. They cause symptoms such as intense, rapid emotional mood swings, hearing sounds, seeing images, and feeling certain sensations that appear to be real but are not. Hallucinogens, including LSD, are categorized as illicit drugs and are often linked to emergency department visits due to their misuse.
Although it is not exactly clear how what causes the hallucinogen drugside effects in the body, research suggests that these drugs make changes in the brain by temporarily disrupting the communication between certain neurotransmitters such as the brain and the spinal cord.
LSD
LSD drugs, or “acid”, is a psychedelic, synthetic drug that has profound effects on the mind and body. LSD is an odorless substance that causes hallucinations and adverse or pleasurable reactions. The reactions from LSD drugs are often called a “trip” and LSD is typically taken by young adults who take it while at a party, rave or even at home.
While LSD typically does not cause psychosis, it can trigger drug-induced psychosis in individuals predisposed to mental illness.
So, how are hallucinogens taken? Known as “acid”, the LSD drug can be found on the street in different forms that include a liquid, small tablets (microdots), gelatin squares (gel tabs) or capsules. LSD drugs can be found and sold after it is put into small paper squares that are absorbent with the drug. It is important to remember that no matter how a person takes LSD drugs, this drug always results in feelings of disconnection, and a changed perception of reality.
If you or someone you know is struggling with LSD abuse and is looking for a drug treatment center, please contact us at AToN Center for information on our treatment recovery programs.
Definition and Composition of LSD
LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, is a potent, semi-synthetic psychedelic substance that alters perception, mood, and a host of cognitive processes. Commonly referred to as “acid,” LSD is renowned for its ability to produce profound changes in consciousness and perception. This powerful hallucinogen is typically synthesized from lysergic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in ergot, a fungus that grows on certain grains like rye. The synthesis process transforms this natural compound into a substance capable of inducing intense and often unpredictable psychological experiences.
Short and Long-Term Side Effects of LSD
There are both short-term and long-term symptoms and effects that LSD can cause. The signs and symptoms upon taking these drugs can include both mental and physical side effects. The long term LSD effects can include significant and prolonged changes in brain chemistry, potentially leading to conditions such as hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD).
Short-Term Effects of LSD
The short-term effects of LSD can happen as quickly as within 30-90 minutes of taking the drug. The initial side effects will last anywhere from 6-12 hours depending on the dose of the drug. The short-term side effects of LSD are:
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Increased heart rate
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Not able to drive or operate machinery
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Increased blood pressure
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Tingling in the fingers or toes
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Chills
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Vomiting
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Extreme sweating
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Dilated pupils
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Anxiety
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Blurred vision
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Loss of appetite
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Weakness
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Impaired coordination
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Raised body temperature
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Dry mouth
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Nausea
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Restlessness
Physical Effects
The physical effects of LSD can vary widely depending on the individual and the dosage. Common physical effects include:
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Dilated pupils
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Increased heart rate and blood pressure
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Sweating
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Nausea and vomiting
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Tremors or shaking
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Changes in body temperature
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Increased sensitivity to light and sound
These physical manifestations can be quite intense and may contribute to the overall disorienting experience of an LSD trip. It’s important to note that while some users may find these effects manageable, others may find them distressing or overwhelming.
Psychological Effects
The psychological effects of LSD are often more pronounced and can include:
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Altered perception of time and space
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Changes in mood and emotions
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Hallucinations, which can be visual, auditory, or tactile
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Changes in thought patterns and cognitive processes
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Feelings of euphoria or intense happiness
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Increased creativity and imagination
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Altered sense of self and identity
These psychological effects are the hallmark of an LSD experience, often described as a “trip.” While some users may find these changes enlightening or enjoyable, others may experience anxiety, paranoia, or confusion.
Long-Term Effects of LSD
The long-term effects of LSD use can be detrimental to both the individual plus the family members. Regular LSD drug abuse may lead to long-term health problems. Persistent psychosis is one of the effects of LSD and is a health risk for those that repeatedly use LSD drugs. Research suggests that LSD and other psychedelics may alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a controlled therapeutic setting.
According to the [National Institute on Drug Abuse]{.underline}](LINK 1), persistent psychosis is associated with visual and mood disturbances, disorganized thinking, and paranoia. The most common long-term effects and signs of LSD use include:
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Mental Disorders
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Memory
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Hallucinogen Persistent Perception Disorder
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Psychosis
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Difficulty with Reality
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Mood Disorders
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Delusions
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Flashbacks
To fully understand what are the long term effects of LSD, it is essential to consider both the potential risks and therapeutic benefits.
Risks and Consequences of LSD Use
While LSD is not considered addictive in the classical sense, it can still have serious risks and consequences, particularly with long-term use. Some of the potential risks and consequences include:
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Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD), also known as flashbacks
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Increased risk of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis
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Paradoxical psychological effects, such as increased anxiety or paranoia
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Increased risk of accidents or injuries due to impaired judgment and coordination
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Negative impacts on relationships and daily life
These risks highlight the importance of understanding the potential long-term effects of LSD use. Even if the drug does not lead to physical dependence, its impact on mental health and daily functioning can be profound and lasting.
Mixing LSD with Other Drugs
Mixing LSD with other drugs can increase the risk of adverse reactions and negative consequences. Some of the potential risks include:
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Increased risk of overdose or poisoning
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Increased risk of adverse interactions between drugs
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Increased risk of mental health problems, such as anxiety or psychosis
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Increased risk of accidents or injuries due to impaired judgment and coordination
Combining LSD with other substances can amplify its effects and lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous outcomes. It’s crucial to be aware of these risks and avoid mixing LSD with other drugs.
Increased Risk of Adverse Reactions
Mixing LSD with other drugs can increase the risk of adverse reactions, particularly if the individual is taking prescription psychiatric medications or has a history of mental health problems. Some of the potential adverse reactions include:
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Increased heart rate and blood pressure
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Increased risk of seizures or convulsions
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Increased risk of psychosis or hallucinations
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Increased risk of anxiety or paranoia
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Increased risk of accidents or injuries due to impaired judgment and coordination
These adverse reactions underscore the importance of caution when using LSD, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking other medications. The combination of LSD with other substances can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening consequences.
LSD Drug Abuse in the US
Addiction and drug abuse are both growing problems not only in the US but all over the world. The problem with drug abuse in the US is that almost 21 million US Americans have at least one addiction or substance abuse issue, yet only 10% of them receive treatment and recovery for it. If you struggle with addiction, the best way to recovery is to be admitted to a drug or alcohol addiction treatment center. These treatment centers can assist you with understanding the reason behind addiction and help you move into recovery.
People wonder if LSD is addictive or not, and the answer is generally no. LSD (acid) is a drug that can cause risks such as accidents, self-harm or compulsive behaviors. Even after long-term use of LSD it is typically not considered addictive or causes abuse.
Generally, people who use LSD do not overdose on the drug, but the long term LSD effects could result in strange mental health behaviors, such as psychosis or suicide if the person takes too much of the drug. When you quit using a drug like LSD, there is no detox period because the drug does not cause dependence or addiction.
Treatment Help at AToN Center
AToN Center is a drug and alcohol addiction treatment center and rehab that treats individuals who struggle with addiction to drugs or alcohol, have a substance abuse disorder or other mental health disorders. Our addiction treatment rehab program includes drug addiction education, detox care, traditional 12-step treatment, and non 12-step treatment programs.
We assist our clients in achieving a full recovery from addiction, and address all the symptoms that occur as a result of addiction, or that are an underlying reason behind it. Our highly educated and doctoral level staff are trained to help individuals recover from addiction, and move on to a happier, healthier life, free from drugs or alcohol.
If you are struggling with addiction or substance abuse, it is possible to get help at AToN Center and move into a full recovery. Please call us at our addiction rehab office to get more information on our treatment program options. You can get sober with help from our addiction specialists and with our treatment, achieve recovery.
