What Does LSD Do to You?
LSD effects generally include:
- Effects of LSD
Visual hallucinations
Audiovisual synesthesia
Derealization
Depersonalization phenomena
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Increased body temperature
Dilated pupil size
Increased blood hormone levels, such as cortisol and epinephrine
Sometimes these effects are experienced positively in the moment. However, a “bad trip” on LSD can be devastating psychologically and cause psychotic-like effects.
After taking this drug, an individual can feel the lingering effects of fatigue, anxiety or depression for upward of three days. Some reports also suggest that people can experience a “flashback” of perceptual disturbances caused by taking LSD in the past, despite the absence of recent use.
How Long Does an Acid Trip Last?
People who take the drug describe that acid trips occur in stages. These stages include a rising phase, the peak and the comedown. In total, an acid trip lasts about 12 hours. Specifically, the effects of LSD begin 30 to 60 minutes after taking the drug and peak after 1 to 5 hours. The effects gradually subside after 5 to 10 hours but can persist as long as 16 hours in total.
LSD Dosage
The LSD dosage people usually take is relatively small, usually measured in micrograms. The average effective acid trip dosage ranges from about 20 to 80 micrograms. Doses of 200 micrograms (which is not considered an abnormal amount) have been given in some clinical studies. The LSD route of administration is typically oral, but it can also be used intravenously or through inhalation.