LSD

• LSD is lysergic acid diethylamide
• LSD is one of the most commonly used hallucinogens in Australia. It was invented in 1938 and explored as a treatment for some mental illnesses.
• In its pure state, LSD is a white, odourless powder. It usually comes in the form of a liquid or as tablets or capsules, squares of gelatine or blotting paper.
• LSD is swallowed, sniffed, injected or smoked. It is very potent, with small amounts causing strong effects.

Street names

Acid, trips, tabs.

Effects

More than with any other drug, the effects of hallucinogens vary greatly from person to person, and from occasion to occasion. It is hard to know how the hallucinogenic experience, or 'tripping', will affect the person.

The effects of LSD usually begin within half an hour of taking the drug, are at their strongest in 3 to 5 hours, and last for up to 12 hours. Typical effects include:

• intense sensory experiences (e.g. brighter colours, sharper sounds)
• mixing of the senses (e.g. colours are heard or sounds seen)
• distorted sense of time (e.g. minutes can seem as slow as hours; reliving old events)
• distorted sense of space
• distorted body image (person feels as if they are floating or being pulled down by gravity)
• pupils of the eyes may dilate
• rapid heart rate
• increased blood pressure
• sense of relaxation and wellbeing
• nausea and loss of appetite
• chills, flushing, shaking
• paranoia, confusion
• abnormal rapid breathing
• acute panic (a 'bad trip')
• abdominal discomfort
• poor coordination.

Days, weeks or even years after using the drug, some people have a repeat experience of the effects (flashbacks). The user may see intense colours and other hallucinations. Flashbacks can be sparked by the use of other drugs, or by stress, fatigue or physical exercise. The flashback experience can range from being pleasant to producing severe feelings of anxiety. They are usually visual and last for a minute or two.

There is also some evidence that heavy use of LSD can impair a user's memory and concentration. Using LSD may increase the risk of certain people developing severe mental disturbances.

Symptoms of a bad trip

While using LSD, or ‘tripping’, the person may experience strong feelings of anxiety or fear. Or they can be so intense that the person feels as though they are losing control and ‘going crazy’. Panic can lead to risky behaviour, such as running across a busy street. Paranoia, intense fear of persecution and feelings of superiority can sometimes develop. This can cause people to injure themselves accidentally; for example, by diving into rough surf.

When negative feelings dominate the experience it is described as a 'bad trip’. The reasons for bad trips are not known. They are particularly common among first-time users. When a 'bad trip' occurs, the user needs to be reassured and calmed until the immediate effects have passed, although this can take many hours. Medical assistance is occasionally required if the user becomes violent toward themselves or others, or becomes excessively anxious. Usually the negative feelings go away when the drug wears off.

How to help someone through a bad trip

• Make sure that the user, and all people around them, are safe.
• Move and speak calmly in a confident manner.
• Address them by name; remind them of who they are.
• Tell them who you are.
• If possible, don’t leave them alone. This may mean staying with them for several hours.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The use of LSD and other hallucinogens seems to be linked to an increased risk of miscarriage. There may also be a higher incidence of birth defects among babies born to women using LSD.

LSD and the law

Hallucinogens are illegal in Australia. Federal, State and Territory laws provide penalties for possessing, using, making or selling hallucinogens. Drug laws in Australia distinguish between those who use drugs and those who supply or traffic drugs.

Harm minimisation

A number of drug treatment options are available in Australia. While abstinence may be a suitable treatment aim for some people, many programs recognise that for others this may not be possible or realistic. Most programs adopt strategies that have an overall aim of reducing the harms and risks related to the person’s drug use. Some treatment options include counselling, withdrawal (detoxification) and pharmacotherapy. Residential and ‘out-patient’ programs are available.

There is no safe level of drug use.

What to do in a crisis

• If someone has an adverse reaction while using hallucinogens, it is very important that they receive professional help as soon as possible. Quick responses can save lives.
• Call an ambulance. Dial 000.
• Stay with the person until the ambulance arrives.
• Ensure adequate air by keeping crowds back and opening windows. Loosen tight clothing.
• If the person is unconscious, don't leave them on their back—they could choke.
• If breathing has stopped, give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If there is no pulse, apply CPR.
• Provide the ambulance officers with as much information as you can—what hallucinogens were taken, how long ago, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
• Before using hallucinogens, make sure you and your friends know what to do in a crisis.

Where to get help

If a person is concerned about their LSD use, they need to be encouraged to get help from their local Aboriginal Health Service, their doctor or from a drug and alcohol service. Family and friends who are concerned about someone they care about can also get information and support from these places:

• Direct Line; Phone: 1800 888 236
• Family Drug Help; Phone: 1300 660 068
• Youth Substance Abuse Service (YSAS); Phone: 1800 014 446; Website: www.ysas.org.au
  Drug and alcohol services for people aged between 12 and 21 who are experiencing significant problems related to their drug use.
• Narcotics Anonymous; Phone: 1300 652 820.

This fact sheet has been adapted from more detailed information provided by the DrugInfo Clearinghouse.