Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is the first synthetic hallucinogen which gained popularity in the 1960s to 1980s as a recreational drug. Its psychedelic effects usually involve heightening or distortion of sensory stimuli and enhancement of feelings and introspection. It is one of the most potent psychoactive compounds known.

Epidemiology

• Its usage has declined in recent years but still persists.
• The Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) estimated that in 2011, the incidence of LSD-related emergency department attendance in the U.S. is 1.5 per 100,000 population.
• Adolescents and young adults are the most frequent users.

PC

Patients with LSD toxicity typically present following acute panic reactions (known as bad trips), massive ingestions or unintentional ingestions.

Psychoactive symptoms

• Variable subjective experiences
• Impaired judgements which can lead to injury
• Amplification of current mood which leads to euphoria or dysphoria
• Agitation, appearing withdrawn - especially in inexperienced users
• Drug-induced psychosis

Somatic symptoms

• Nausea
• Headache