Physiological Changes and Effects Reported by Users and/or Survivors of LSD :: Chemistry Chemical Essays Science

Physiological Changes and Effects Reported by Users and/or Survivors of LSD Lysergic acid diethylamide is one of the most potent hallucinogens on the drug circuit and had been in this top position for many years. First discovered by Albert Hoffman when it was absorbed through his fingers while he was conducting a routine synthesis. Today LSD is a widely popular recreational drug in which its users are looking for the non addictive euphoria that comes with ingesting this substance. LSD is derived from the fungus found on rye and is presented to users in a variety of methods. Some of the most common ways LSD is taken is by tablet, or in its liquid form laced into products such as blotter paper, postage stamps and chewing gum. LSD is commonly called "acid" by users and is an odorless, colorless substance. LSD has been in prevalent in society for decades and was extremely popular in the 60's and 70's. Its popularity weekend in the late 70's and throughout the 80's, but again is making a comeback as one of the most abused drugs on the market today. Users take LSD in varying doses the most common ranging from 20- 80 micrograms. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration these levels are drastically reduced from the common doses of the 60's and 70's. Common doses taken in that time were between 100 and 200 micrograms (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2005). Different doses account for the intensity of the experience was has when taking LSD. All of the effects of LSD can be perceived on a spectrum of intensity and prevalence. The contradiction to this is if a user frequently uses this drug, they build up a tolerance that can not be overturned just by taking LSD in higher doses. Some minor effects may still occur but it will be of little intensity and possibly of a shorter duration. After one ingests LSD it is absorbed by their gastrointestinal tract and is soon flowing in their blood stream and in turn to the users brain. Onsets of the drug, when the user will begin to notice effects, can ranger from thirty to approximately ninety minutes. After the initial onset of the drug, one may feel effects from it for twelve or more hours. Unlike amphetamines which when using a urine test can be detected for seventy two hours after use, LSD is usually