LSD
LSD is the most common hallucinogen. LSD was discovered in
1938 by Dr. Albert Hofmann, and is one of the most potent mood-changing
chemicals. It is manufactured from lysergic acid, which is found in
ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. LSD is classified
under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, which includes drugs with
no medical use and/or high potential for abuse. LSD, commonly referred
to as "acid," is sold on the street in tablets, capsules, or
occasionally in liquid form. It is odorless and colorless, with a
slightly bitter taste, and is usually taken by mouth. Usually LSD is
sold as "blotter acid," where the drug is imprinted on small, colorful
sheets of paper. A single dose costs around $4-$5 and the effects can
last from 3 to 12 hours. Users refer to their experience with LSD as
a "trip," and to acute adverse reactions as a "bad trip."
The user may experience panic, confusion, suspicion, anxiety,
and loss of control. Flashbacks can occur even when use has ceased.
Most users of LSD voluntarily decrease or stop its use over time.
LSD is not considered to be an addicting drug because it does not
produce compulsive drug-seeking behavior like cocaine, amphetamines,
heroin, alcohol, or nicotine do.
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