Lysergic acid diethylamide

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is synthetically derived from the fungus, Claviceps purpuria. Several isomers of this compound exist, although only the D-isomer is considered active. LSD was first synthesized by Albert Hofmann in 1938 in a search for an analeptic drug. After finding its psychogenic activity, it was marketed by Sandoz laboratories under the name Delysid. It was also reportedly used by the Central Intelligence Agency as a tool for interrogation. Due to its potential for ‘bad trips,’ ‘flashbacks,’ and potential risk for brain injury, LSD was banned federally in 1966 and is currently only used illicitly. LSD is chemically similar to other naturally occurring lysergamides found in multiple species of morning glory.