Lysergic Acid Diethylamide

Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (also known as LSD, acid, or d-lysergic acid diethylamide) is a psychedelic drug known for its psychological effects. It is one of the most potent mood-changing chemicals, derived from the extremely poisonous ergot fungus, a mold which grows on rye and other grains.

History

LSD was first synthesized in 1938 by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann at the Sandoz Laboratories in Basel, Switzerland. It was not until five years later on April 16, 1943, that the psychedelic properties were found.

Effects

The effects of LSD are unpredictable. They depend on the amount taken, the person's mood and personality, and the surroundings in which the drug is used. It is a roll of the dice—a racing, distorted high or a severe, paranoid low.

Medical use

While LSD has no approved uses in medicine, it is used in research and has been investigated as a treatment for anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Legal status

LSD is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. This means that it has a high potential for abuse, has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and has a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

See also

• Psychedelic therapy
• Psychedelic drugs
• Albert Hofmann
• Controlled Substances Act

Lysergic Acid Diethylamide Resources
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