Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is synthesized by Swiss pharmacologist Albert Hoffman.
In his book "My Problem Child", Hoffman writes: "In 1938, I produced the twenty-fifth substance in this series of lysergic acid derivatives: lysergic acid diethylamide, abbreviated LSD-25 (Lyserg-säure-diäthylamid) for laboratory usage. I had planned the synthesis of this compound with the intention of obtaining a circulatory and respiratory stimulant."
Source: Nichols, D. (2015). LSD: Cultural revolution and medical advances. Royal Society of Chemistry.
| Drugs: |
LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) |
| Regions: |
Switzerland |
Related Timeline Items
Albert Hofmann publishes a book about psychedelic drugs (1979 CE)
In 1979, Albert Hofmann publishes "LSD, My Problem Child". In the book, Hofmann discusses the origins and the effects LSD, the use of LSD in psychiatry, and he also talks about other psychedelic substances (such as magic mushrooms).
Hoffman describes the first time he inadvertently ingested LSD:"Last Friday, April 16,1943, I was forced to interrupt my work in the laboratory in the middle of the afternoon and proceed home, being affected by a remarkable restlessness, combined with a slight dizziness. At home I lay down and sank into a not unpleasant intoxicated-like condition, characterized by an extremely stimulated imagination. In a dreamlike state, with eyes closed (I found the daylight to be unpleasantly glaring), I perceived an uninterrupted stream of fantastic pictures, extraordinary shapes with intense, kaleidoscopic play of colors. After some two hours this condition faded away."
While Hoffman supports LSD research and acknowledges the potential benefit of the substance, he also warns against the inappropriate use of LSD, noting that "special internal and external advance preparations are required; with them, an LSD experiment can become a meaningful experience. Wrong and inappropriate use has caused LSD to become my problem child."
Albert Hoffman
