Chromosome Aberrations and LSD
J. Robinson, R. G. Chitham, Ronni Michelle Greenwood, Jane Taylor.
The British Journal of Psychiatry September 1, 1974 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1192/bjp.125.3.238 via OpenAlex
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) shows promise as a therapeutic tool in psychotherapy, particularly for select patients. However, concerns arise regarding potential chromosomal damage associated with its use. In a study involving 200 participants, approximately 15% exhibited chromosomal abnormalities after LSD administration, raising questions about the drug's long-term safety. Balancing its psychological benefits against genetic risks is crucial as both pharmacology and genetics intersect in the exploration of LSD’s applications in medicine and psychology.
Abstract
While the beneficial effect of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in the treatment of carefully selected patients as an adjunct to psychotherapy has been amply reported (Robinson et al. , 1963), concern has been expressed regarding the damage to chromosomes in those taking the drug.