All medications have side effects, and specific body and brain functions change as the substance begins to take effect.
Some medications are intentionally used to treat these changes, e.g., ibuprofen, to relieve headache pain. Sometimes, however, substances have what we consider a negative effect on the body.
Take LSD, for example — this substance negatively impacts the brain in so many ways, including your quality of sleep.
What is acid/LSD?
LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), also known colloquially as “acid,” is a powerful hallucinogenic drug derived from ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. It was first synthesized in 1938 by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann, who accidentally ingested the substance and experienced its mind-altering effects.
Acid is known for its ability to produce profound changes in perception, mood and thought. “Under the influence of LSD, people may have strong reactions to the drug’s hallucinatory effects, leading them to experience panic attacks, uncharacteristic outbursts, and suicidal thoughts that can result in harm to themselves and others. It may also lead to social, legal, and professional consequences.”
The effects of LSD can vary widely from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as dosage, environment, and one’s mental and physical health status.
Common side effects of acid include:
- Hallucinations — visual, auditory, or tactile hallucinations that can be intense and vivid, pleasant or frightening
- Synesthesia — the blending together of different senses, such as seeing sounds or hearing colors
- Altered perception of time and space — Time may seem to move more slowly or quickly than usual; it may be difficult to distinguish between reality and fantasy, which can lead to distressing feelings of disorientation and confusion
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- Elevated body temperature
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Muscle weakness
- Tremors
- Poor coordination
In addition to these short-term side effects, LSD can also have long-term effects on mental health. Prolonged use of LSD can lead to persistent hallucinogen-induced perception disorder (HPPD), where users continue to experience hallucinations even after acid use is discontinued. This can significantly impact your quality of life and may require medical treatment.
Is acid addictive?
Despite its reputation for being a dangerous drug, LSD is not physically addictive – but the body does develop tolerance over time. As more of the drug is needed to obtain the same effects, the risk of experiencing a dangerous hallucinatory experience increases as well. Additionally, acid is laced with opioids like fentanyl, stimulants, and other highly addictive substances.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in using LSD as a therapeutic tool. Some studies have suggested that LSD can be effective in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using LSD in a therapeutic setting.
What is the impact of acid on sleep?
One of the primary ways LSD affects sleep is by disrupting the normal sleep-wake cycle. Users of LSD often report experiencing vivid and intense dreams, as well as difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. This can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and decreased overall sleep quality.
Additionally, LSD can alter the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate sleep, such as serotonin and dopamine. These changes can further disrupt the sleep cycle and lead to difficulty achieving restful and restorative sleep.
Some users of LSD have reported experiencing “flashbacks” or recurring hallucinations during sleep, which can also disturb sleep patterns and lead to sleep disturbances.
Some studies have shown that acid increases the length one experiences REM sleep – but this is less of a positive thing than it may seem. Unnaturally increased REM sleep can lead to increased nightmares, hallucinations and a worsened sense of paranoia or fear.
Looking for sleep support and other healthy habits?
If you have found yourself using acid and have struggled with the negative impact of the drug on your sleep schedule/quality, don’t worry. With the right treatment and counseling services, you’ll be able to get your life reoriented in no time.
To speak with a mental health specialist today, call Silvermist Recovery anytime at 724-268-4858.