LSD (Blotter)

LSD is a classical psychedelic substance of the lysergamide class. In blotter form, small pieces of paper are soaked in liquid LSD then dried to be distributed and consumed sublingually or orally. LSD is perhaps the most researched and culturally-influential psychedelic substance, as well as the prototypal lysergamide. The mechanism of action is not fully known, although serotonin binding activity is thought to be involved. It has been called the first modern entheogen, a group which is otherwise limited to traditional plant preparations or extracts.

LSD-25, Lucy, L, Acid, Cid, Tabs, Blotter, Lysergic acid diethylamide

Subjective effects include visual geometry, hallucinatory states, time distortion, enhanced introspection, conceptual thinking, increased music appreciation, euphoria, and ego loss. LSD use is reportedly associated with mystical-type experiences that are sometimes claimed to facilitate self-reflection and personal growth. Unlike most highly prohibited substances, LSD has not been proven to be physiologically toxic or addictive. However, adverse psychological reactions such as severe anxiety, paranoia, delusions, and psychosis are always possible, particularly for those predisposed to mental disorders.

The psychoactive effects of LSD were first discovered in 1943 by Albert Hofmann at Sandoz Laboratories in Switzerland. In the 1950s, Sandoz distributed LSD as an experimental drug for psychotherapy and scientific research, attracting significant interest from the intellectual community, and even the CIA, for potential “mind control” applications. LSD use became a hallmark of the 1960s youth counterculture, leading to its international prohibition in 1971. Despite its illegal status, LSD use remains widespread today, with a lifetime prevalence of 6-8% among American adults. Recently, scientific research on LSD has resumed, investigating its potential to treat conditions like alcoholism, substance addiction, cluster headaches, autism, and anxiety associated with terminal illness.

Sublingual, Oral