what is it?

LSD (LYSERGIC ACID DIETHYLAMIDE) is a powerful hallucinogenic drug which usually comes either in the form of small pills (microdots), or as "tabs" of impregnated paper. Only a very small amount of the LSD is necessary for the drug to have its effect (usually called a trip), nevertheless it is difficult to gauge how intense the experience will be as strength varies from batch to batch and the drug's effects differ from person to person.

what are the effects?


THE EFFECTS OF LSD (THE TRIP) CAN last anything between 5 and 24 hours, although 6 to 12 is most usual. LSD powerfully changes perceptions. Familiar objects and people may at one moment appear inexplicably funny, in another frightening. Sense of time can become distorted, music can be heard more acutely and strange patterns seen, although it is rare to have true hallucinations.

LSD use is often an intense experience, the effects are to some degree dependent on the mood of the person taking it and the surroundings in which it is taken. Sensations are intensified and therefore if there is any doubt or anxiety in the mind of the user about taking LSD it is likely that this anxiety will be magnified and the user will have an unpleasant experience. In the same way the social setting in which LSD is

what are the side effects?

LSD IS NOT PHYSICALLY ADDICTIVE, and is not usually associated with dependency problems because it becomes less effective if taken for several days in a row.

The problems associated with the use of LSD are mainly psychological. Serious anxiety problems can occur. For some individuals it may precipitate a more serious psychological problem, particularly after long term or heavy use but this is usually as a result of LSD aggravating an existing problem may be rather than creating a new one. "Flashbacks" may occur a few days, or more rarely weeks, after the LSD was taken. They are probably best described as sudden intense memories. They are rarely frightening and usually pass quickly.

A bad experience with LSD (bad trip) is not entirely predictable. Where you take it, and your state of mind play their part. Someone who is having a bad trip should be reassured that they will not die and that they are not going mad. They should be placed in a soothing environment and a friend should stay with them. If you feel anxious, depressed or suffer from mental health problems, taking LSD is likely to be an unpleasant experience.

what is the legal position?

UNDER THE MISUSE OF DRUGS ACT 1971 LSD is classified as a class A drug. It's illegal to possess, supply, or produce it and to allow premises to be used for production or supply. It's also an offence to drive while under the influence of LSD.

Penalties vary according to individual circumstances, and local policies.