Alcohol & LSD
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that affects various neurotransmitters in the brain, mostly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. It enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA, leading to sedation and relaxation.
LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, is a hallucinogenic drug that primarily affects the serotonin system in the brain. It binds to serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptors, leading to altered perception, mood, and cognition.
When alcohol and LSD are taken together, their mechanisms of action interact in parallel different but interconnected paths. In theory, alcohol can affect the metabolism and elimination of LSD from the body and potentiate its side effects.
LSD can reduce the perceived effects of alcohol. This can lead individuals to consume more alcohol than they realize, increasing the risk of alcohol-related problems, including alcohol poisoning.
Mixing alcohol and LSD can cause nausea and vomiting due to chemical reactions that occur in the body. This can contribute to discomfort and an unpleasant overall experience. The combination can intensify negative emotions and potentially lead to bad trip.
The effects of LSD can be named unpredictable, and alcohol consumption can further increase this unpredictability. This can lead to potentially dangerous situations and adverse reactions.
Factors such as the dose taken, timing, the user's mental state, and the environment can all contribute to the variability of the trip. If a person takes large doses of LSD and drinks alcohol during the trip, or takes LSD on top of intense intoxication, the chances of having a bad time and encountering side reactions will increase.
We have no data on the acute and dangerous consequences of this combination. However, the subjective indications of users note that alcohol, other things being equal, worsens the experience of LSD.
On the other hand, small doses of alcohol, ideally light, can help to stabilize the consciousness excited by the trip, if taken during the decline of effects or after the end of the trip. Note that this does not cancel individual reactions and sensations, but it can have a slight sedative effect.
By the same logic, if you have increased anxiety before trip, perhaps a small dose of alcohol will have a calming effect and the all will generally go well. However, it is necessary to clearly limit the dose and be prepared for the side effects indicated above. Also we recommend monitoring hydration - this is important in any case.
In light of these considerations, we strongly recommend a meaningful approach to this combination.
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