Lysergide d-tartrate

A psychedelic compound known for its psychological effects

Lysergide d-tartrate, commonly known as LSD, is a psychedelic drug that is well-known for its psychological effects, which can include altered thoughts, feelings, and awareness of one's surroundings. It is a derivative of lysergic acid, which is found in the ergot fungus that grows on rye and other grains.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Chemical structure of Lysergide d-tartrate

Lysergide d-tartrate is the tartrate salt form of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). The chemical formula for LSD is C₂₀H₂₅N₃O, and it is a member of the ergoline family. The compound is typically synthesized from ergotamine, a chemical derived from the ergot fungus.

LSD is a chiral compound with two stereocenters, and the d-tartrate form is one of the most common salt forms used in research and recreational contexts. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless substance that is usually administered orally.

Pharmacology

LSD acts primarily as a serotonin receptor agonist, particularly at the 5-HT_2A receptor. This interaction is believed to be responsible for its psychedelic effects. The drug also affects other neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and glutamate, which may contribute to its complex effects on perception and mood.

The onset of effects typically occurs within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, with peak effects occurring at around 2 to 4 hours. The total duration of effects can last from 8 to 12 hours, depending on the dose and individual metabolism.

Effects

The effects of LSD are highly variable and can be influenced by the user's mood, environment, and expectations. Common effects include:

• Altered sensory perception, including visual and auditory hallucinations
• Changes in thought processes and sense of time
• Emotional swings, ranging from euphoria to anxiety
• Synesthesia, where senses become mixed (e.g., "seeing" sounds)

History and Cultural Impact

LSD was first synthesized in 1938 by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann while he was working at Sandoz Laboratories. It was initially investigated for its potential therapeutic uses in psychiatry, but it gained widespread popularity in the 1960s as a recreational drug associated with the counterculture movement.

The use of LSD has been controversial, leading to its classification as a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries, including the United States. Despite its legal status, LSD continues to be used both recreationally and in research settings to explore its potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Safety and Legal Status

LSD is considered to have a low potential for addiction, but it can cause significant psychological distress, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental health disorders. "Bad trips" can result in severe anxiety, paranoia, and delusions.

The legal status of LSD varies by country, but it is generally classified as an illegal substance with no accepted medical use. However, recent research has sparked renewed interest in its potential therapeutic applications, leading to a reevaluation of its legal status in some regions.

Related pages

• Psychedelic drug
• Serotonin receptor
• Albert Hofmann
• Ergot
• Counterculture of the 1960s