Coma, Hyperthermia, and Bleeding Associated with Massive LSD Overdose a Report of Eight Cases
Clinical toxicology – January 01, 1975
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Massive doses of D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) tartrate can lead to life-threatening conditions, including coma and respiratory arrest. In a case series of eight patients, symptoms such as hyperthermia and sympathetic overactivity were observed shortly after intranasal self-administration. Serum LSD concentrations ranged from 2.1 to 26 ng/ml, while gastric levels reached between 1000 to 7000 μg/100 ml. Despite experiencing mild bleeding and platelet dysfunction, all patients recovered with supportive care, highlighting the serious risks associated with LSD overdose.
Abstract
Eight patients were seen within 15 min of intranasal self-administration of large amounts of pure D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) tartrate powder. Emesis and collapse occurred along with sign of sympathetic overactivity, hyperthermia, coma, and respiratory arrest. Mild generalized bleeding occurred in several patients and evidence of platelet dysfunction was present in all. Serum and gastric concentrations of LSD tartrate ranged from 2.1 to 26 ng/ml and 1000 to 7000 mug/100 ml, respectively. With supportive care, all patients recovered. Massive LSD overdose in humans is life-threatening and produces striking and distinctive manifestations.