Lysergic acid ethylamide

Lysergic acid ethylamide structure.svg

Lysergic acid ethylamide (LAE), also known as ethyl lysergamide and N,N-diethyllysergamide, is a semi-synthetic alkaloid of the lysergamide family. LAE is closely related to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and is known for its psychedelic properties. It was first synthesized in the mid-20th century and has been the subject of various pharmacological and neurochemical studies due to its similarity to LSD, though it is considerably less potent.

Chemistry

LAE is a derivative of lysergic acid, a common precursor in the synthesis of lysergamide drugs. The chemical structure of LAE includes the lysergic acid backbone with an ethylamide group attached to the nitrogen atom of the indole ring. This modification slightly alters its pharmacological profile compared to LSD.

Pharmacology

The pharmacological action of LAE, like other lysergamides, is primarily through agonism of the serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This action is believed to be responsible for its psychedelic effects. However, the exact mechanism of action and all of its effects are not fully understood, and it is considered to be less potent and have a shorter duration of action than LSD.

History

LAE was first synthesized as part of a research program looking for medically useful derivatives of lysergic acid. Its psychedelic effects were discovered incidentally, similar to the discovery of LSD. Despite its interesting properties, LAE has not been widely used or studied, remaining a compound of interest primarily among researchers and a niche group of psychedelic enthusiasts.

Legal Status

The legal status of LAE varies by country, but it is often regulated under laws similar to those governing LSD and other psychedelics. In many jurisdictions, it is a controlled substance, making its manufacture, distribution, and possession without proper authorization illegal.

See Also

• Lysergic acid diethylamide
• Psychedelic drug
• Serotonin receptor agonist
• Indole alkaloid