What Happens When You Mix LSD and Alcohol?

Alcohol use only increases the unpredictability of LSD making it more dangerous to yourself and others, as the likelihood for reckless behavior and self-harm increases.

LSD/acid is a substance praised by hippies and tech moguls alike. Because of the drug’s mixed reputation and prevalence in pop culture, many people write off LSD’s potential dangers and see it as a ticket to enlightenment. It turns out that the effects of this substance are more complicated and often riskier than they appear.

LSD use can have unpredictable and even deadly consequences, particularly when consumed with alcohol and other drugs. If you or someone you know is taking LSD and alcohol together, it’s important that they consider the potential dangers before endangering their life or the lives of others.

Side Effects of Mixing Acid and Alcohol

The ways that LSD interacts with other drugs, including alcohol, are difficult to understand. Its effects vary dramatically from person to person, based on individual body chemistry and the dosage consumed. As frightening as it can be on its own, mixing alcohol and acid can be even worse.

When you mix alcohol and acid, the risks and symptoms can include:

• Dry mouth
• Hallucinations (visual and auditory)
• Lack of a sense of time
• Insomnia
• Blood pressure and heart rate changes
• Appetite changes
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Unpredictable trips or actions

Unpredictability – #1 Danger of Mixing LSD and Alcohol

While there are many side effects, perhaps the biggest danger of mixing the two substances is the complete unpredictability of the situation. Some people feel like the alcohol dulls the effects of the LSD, and others say it worsens their hallucinations. You may be more reckless, harm yourself, or to endanger the safety of the people around you when mixing the two drugs. You could also hurt yourself or someone else during a bad trip. Both alcohol and acid lower inhibitions and increase impulsivity, which is why there’s a big risk that an accident could occur.

Dosage, the users’ mental state and the location where the drug is consumed are a few other factors that can make mixing acid and alcohol even more dangerous. Since dosages and a person’s mental state can be difficult to determine, this further complicates the situation.

It’s unfortunate that the combination of alcohol and acid has become so popular, particularly among partiers who want to amplify their experience with both. The danger of mixing the two drugs is very real and can end in serious injuries or even death.

Treatment for LSD and Alcohol Use

While LSD is not necessarily physically addictive, frequent use can take a lasting toll on mental health. Psychological addiction, while rare, is also a distinct possibility. In some cases, professional help is needed when someone is psychologically withdrawing from a drug because depression or suicidal thoughts can occur.

In some cases, some people may develop a polysubstance abuse problem where they abuse or are addicted to multiple substances like acid and alcohol. Depending on how long the abuse has been going on, professional help may be needed to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes.

If you or someone you love is abusing alcohol, LSD or other substances, turn to professionals you can trust. At The Recovery Village, our dedicated staff of nurses, counselors, doctors and psychologists have helped countless people overcome addiction and substance misuse. Evidence-based detox, inpatient, outpatient and aftercare measures set you up for success from day one. Contact our intake coordinators to begin the treatment process today.

Editor – Melissa Carmona

As the content manager at Advanced Recovery Systems, Melissa Carmona puts years of writing and editing experience to work helping people understand substance abuse, addiction and mental health disorders. Read more

Medically Reviewed By – Benjamin Caleb Williams, RN

Benjamin Caleb Williams is a board-certified Emergency Nurse with several years of clinical experience, including supervisory roles within the ICU and ER settings. Read more