lysergic

Lysergic is an adjective used to describe compounds related to lysergic acid, an ergoline alkaloid derived from ergot fungi (notably Claviceps purpurea). In practice, the term is most often encountered in reference to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and lysergic acid amide (LSA), as well as other derivatives that share the lysergic acid moiety.

Chemistry and related compounds: Lysergic compounds are ergoline alkaloids that contain a lysergic acid core. LSD is a semi-synthetic amide of lysergic acid, while LSA occurs naturally in seeds of certain plants. Other ergoline alkaloids with lysergic origins have medical and pharmacological uses, or have been studied for their psychoactive properties. The substances vary in potency, onset, and duration of effects, but all fall within the broad class of lysergic compounds.

Pharmacology and effects: Lysergic compounds are potent serotonergic psychedelics, primarily acting as agonists at 5-HT2A receptors. They typically produce perceptual changes, vivid visual phenomena, altered sense of time, and shifts in mood and thought. Experience quality and duration depend on the specific compound, dose, and individual factors. Common risks include anxiety, confusion, and, in vulnerable individuals, the potential for triggering or worsening psychiatric symptoms. Physiological effects can include increases in heart rate and blood pressure. These substances are generally not physically addictive, but misuse or unsafe contexts can lead to harm.

History and legality: LSD was first synthesized in the 1930s and gained prominence in the 1950s–1960s, contributing to both scientific research and countercultural movements. Today, lysergic compounds are tightly regulated in many countries, with legal status varying by jurisdiction and purpose (legal research or medical use being highly restricted).