Lysergic Acid Diethylamide, commonly known as LSD, is a powerful psychedelic substance. The concept of “LSD eye drops” frequently surfaces, raising questions about its feasibility and effects. This article explores administering LSD through the eyes, examining the physiological aspects and implications.
Understanding LSD
LSD is a synthetic psychedelic compound, derived from lysergic acid, which is found in ergot, a fungus that grows on grains like rye. It is categorized as a hallucinogen, profoundly altering perception, mood, and thought processes. As a colorless and odorless substance with a slightly bitter taste, LSD is highly potent, with doses measured in micrograms (µg), where even 20 µg can produce noticeable effects.
The drug is typically consumed orally, often absorbed from blotter paper, liquid solutions, gel tabs, or sugar cubes. Once ingested, effects usually begin within 30 to 90 minutes, peak around 2 to 4 hours, and can last for 8 to 12 hours or even longer with higher doses. LSD primarily acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to an overstimulation of the senses and changes in perception, attention, and emotions. These changes can include vivid colors, distorted shapes, altered sounds, and a sense of euphoria, though rapid mood swings and feelings of anxiety or despair can also occur.
Administering LSD Through the Eyes
The concept of administering LSD through eye drops is a subject of both urban legend and limited documented cases. While not a common method, it is physiologically possible for LSD to be absorbed through the ocular surface. The eye’s structure, specifically the cornea and conjunctiva, allows for the permeation of substances into the bloodstream, as their epithelial layers can absorb chemical compounds.
If LSD were effectively absorbed through the eyes, psychoactive effects could onset more quickly than oral administration, possibly within minutes, similar to intravenous use which can produce effects in about 10 minutes. The duration of effects would likely range from several hours to over 12 hours, depending on the absorbed dose. Ocular administration could lead to intense psychoactive experiences, as the drug bypasses some initial metabolic processes that occur with oral ingestion.
One reported physical effect of LSD on the eyes is pupil dilation. There has been at least one documented case where an individual placed LSD-impregnated filter paper into their conjunctival fornices, resulting in bilateral toxic corneal and conjunctival epitheliopathy. This indicates that while absorption can occur, it can also cause direct physical harm to the eye.
Risks and Dangers of Ocular Administration
Administering LSD via eye drops carries risks, primarily due to potential direct damage to the eyes and the extreme difficulty in controlling the dosage. The substance itself, or impurities often found in illicit drugs, can cause severe irritation, abrasions, or chemical burns to the cornea and conjunctiva. Introducing substances with significantly different pH levels, such as the weakly basic LSD, can disrupt the eye’s natural balance and cause cellular damage.
Accurately dosing a potent substance like LSD through eye drops is nearly impossible, leading to unpredictable effects or an unintended overdose. A slight difference in dose can alter the experience, and illicit LSD often has inconsistent purity and strength. Beyond direct ocular harm, general dangers associated with illicit drug use apply, including the unknown purity and composition of the substance, which may contain harmful cutting agents. Uncontrolled administration also increases the likelihood of severe psychological distress, often referred to as a “bad trip,” characterized by paranoia, anxiety, or terrifying thoughts. The legal consequences of possessing and using LSD are significant, as it is classified as a Schedule I substance in many jurisdictions, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.