Things to know about acid

The down side

No two trips are the same. The type of trip can depend on the amount of drug in the acid tab, the person's mood and where they take the drug.

It's best not taken on your own but in a place where you feel relaxed and with people you trust. Some people have someone to sit with them for reassurance: a phone ringing or knock at the door can be disturbing when tripping.

Bad trips

The illusions can be very scary. A bad trip could last hours and put you off ever trying acid again.

Under the influence of the drug people may have no sense of danger and occasionally can harm or kill themselves or others.

Although acid/LSD causes no physical harm, it can cause long term personality changes; also paranoia and schizophrenic-type mental illness, especially in people already vulnerable to these or already suffering depression or anxiety.

Occasionally, some time after taking the drug, there can be panic attacks and sudden flashbacks when parts of the trip are relived. This can happen weeks, months or even years after taking the drug.

What to do

If someone's having a bad trip:

• Take them somewhere quiet.
• Reassure them that the effects of the drugs will wear off in a few hours.
• If they get out of control, get medical help.

Due to acid's strength and the chance of a bad trip, mixing it with other mind-altering drugs is a very bad idea.

With ecstasy
A mix of acid and ecstasy is called a ‘candy flip’. It involves taking E before the acid and the effects can last up to 10 hours. It combines the psychedelic quality of acid with the ‘loved-up’ feeling of E. This is not for those new to pharmaceuticals or without experience of both drugs.

With anti-depressants
Anti-depressants can lower or boost the effect of acid. Along with the drug lithium, some can greatly increase the effect of the acid and cause dangerous reactions.

With HIV meds - Not much is known about dangerous interactions between acid and HIV drugs.

The law

Acid/LSD is a Class A drug.

Penalties

Possession carries a penalty of up to seven years prison and/or an unlimited fine.

Intending to supply - including giving to friends - carries a penalty of up to life in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

More information and support

For help and advice concerning drugs see the page of Useful info and support in the Power room on this website. Drugs and alcohol