Extreme Hyperthermia After LSD Ingestion
JAMA – September 13, 1971
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A life-threatening case of hyperthermia at 106.4°F (41.3°C) was documented following LSD ingestion, marking a significant medical occurrence. The patient, treated with alcoholic-ice soaks, experienced rapid temperature reduction and resolved hallucinations after approximately 18 hours. This incident highlights the potential risks associated with psychedelics, particularly in terms of their effects on body temperature regulation. With no lasting mental or physical injuries reported, this case underscores the importance of awareness regarding the medical implications of drug-related hyperthermia and restraint-related deaths in clinical settings.
Abstract
Hyperthermia is a known effect of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). This is, to our knowledge, the first recorded instance of life-threatening hyperthermia (106.4 F [41.3 C] axillary) in man, following the use of LSD, and may have been dose-related. The hyperthermia was rapidly reversed by alcoholic-ice soaks, hallucinations ended about 18 hours later, and the patient recovered without obvious mental or physical injury.