LSD use in the United States: Examining user demographics and their evolution from 2015–2019

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use in the United States increased by 47% from 2015 to 2019, rising from 0.59% to 0.87% of the population. Among people with past-year hallucinogen use disorder, the proportion of LSD users did not significantly increase. Factors associated with LSD use included easier access to LSD, lower perceived risk of trying it, low income, fewer children in the home, recent contact with drug sellers, and, among adults 18 and older, a past-year suicide attempt. No associations were found with unemployment, arrest history, or psychological distress. Over the study period, LSD users became more likely to be ages 26–34 and married, and lifetime methamphetamine users also increased their LSD use. LSD remains uncommon and does not appear to be a major public health burden.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Background Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use has risen in the United States in recent years amid increased interest in therapeutic applications of psychedelics. Despite this, contemporary epidemiological investigations of LSD users are few. To expand the literature on this topic, we sought to characterize past-year LSD users in the United States and investigate recent demographic evolution within this population. Methods Using National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) data from 2015–2019, we investigated correlates of past-year LSD use and associated changes over the study period. Results Past-year LSD use increased by 47% from 2015 to 2019 (0.59%–0.87%). However, among people reporting past-year hallucinogen use disorder there was no significant proportional increase in LSD users. Notable correlates of LSD use on multivariable analysis were: increased LSD access, lower perceived risk of trying LSD, low income, fewer children in the home, being approached by someone selling drugs in the past month, and past-year suicide attempt among people age 18 and older. We found no associations with unemployment, arrest history, or past-year psychological distress. From 2015 to 2019, the proportion of respondents reporting past-year LSD use who were age 26–34 and married increased. Past-year LSD use among lifetime users of methamphetamine also rose. Conclusions Though still uncommonly used in the United States, LSD's societal acceptance may be increasing. Overall, LSD does not appear to contribute significantly to the country's public health problems.