In Canada, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is still heavily regulated. As a Schedule III drug, the production, possession, and sale of this substance are illegal unless used for industrial, scientific, or medical purposes.
What exactly are in LSDs, and why are they always compared with psilocybin? Will taking LSDs have a similar effect as eating mushroom chocolate in Canada? Learn more about LSDs here.
LSD’s Humble Beginnings
LSD is a hallucinogenic drug that scientists and doctors use in clinical research and therapeutic settings. Albert Hofmann synthesized this substance in 1938, and from there, LSDs became one of the most widely used psychedelics in the world.
LSD has several positive effects on how people think, feel and behave, especially regarding anxiety around death. However, it’s essential to be aware of risks before taking this drug as part of any research or treatment plan.
LSD Comes From Lysergic Acid
Lysergic acid is an organic compound that contains a long chain of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It is found naturally in the fungus Claviceps purpurea, which grows on rye plants. Chemists use lysergic acid to produce LSD, ecstasy (MDMA), speed, and other drugs.
LSDs Are Non-Toxic
When taken in the standard 50-200μg dosage, LSDs are non-toxic and do not cause dependency. It means LSDs do not harm the body or make it dependent on the drug. This is true even though LSDs can be harmful if taken in large doses for a prolonged period.
An adult user is unlikely to suffer any severe side effects from LSD. However, when used with other addictive substances like alcohol or cannabis, the risk of experiencing adverse effects increases significantly. These substances have different interactions with LSD. They can result in greater potency for all drugs ingested or absorbed into your bloodstream simultaneously.
LSDs Can Be Abused
LSDs have the potential to be abused. They can cause several health, legal, financial, and relationship problems.
LSD use can lead to adverse physical effects such as nausea, vomiting, headaches and muscle cramps. It may also cause heart problems and even death due to accidents or suicide while on the drug. LSD also causes hallucinations that last up to 12 hours when taken by mouth, even in small doses.
The drug also changes how people see colours or hear sounds that aren’t there. Some people even say they see rainbows when they’re high on LSD. Since they’ve been found unsafe for human consumption due to their high potency levels, LSDs are still illegal until now.
LSDs Can Make You Feel in Touch With Your Surroundings
Some LSD users report feeling more “in touch” with their surroundings. This can manifest in feelings of euphoria, the dissolution of boundaries between self and others, or a sense of deep understanding of the interconnectedness of things.
While this is certainly not true for all LSD users, it’s worth noting that many users report these sensations when using the substance.
LSD Affects Every Person Differently
LSD users have different reactions to the drug. How you respond to LSD is influenced by many factors, including your body, mind, habits, and past experiences.
Your external environment also plays a crucial role in how you will react. For example, being in an unfamiliar setting or with people who may cause anxiety can increase your chances of having a bad trip.
Be Careful and Aware of the Risks
LSD is a potent drug that can yield positive and negative effects. While using this drug can be an enjoyable experience for some people, it is still essential to understand its risks.
LSD can increase the risk of having a bad trip, which includes anxiety, panic attacks, and paranoia. Taking the drug can also cause psychotic symptoms such as hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there.
It’s crucial for everyone who uses LSD to know the risks to make informed decisions about their health and safety. Discuss it with your doctor first if you’re considering taking LSD or other psychedelic drugs.