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Coma, hyperthermia and bleeding associated with massive LSD overdose. A report of eight cases
The Western Journal of Medicine
|March 1, 1974
Summary
Massive intranasal doses of D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) caused life-threatening symptoms including coma and respiratory arrest in eight patients. Prompt supportive care led to full recovery, highlighting the severe risks of LSD overdose.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a potent psychoactive substance.
- Intranasal administration is a less common route of recreational LSD use.
- Understanding the acute effects of massive LSD overdose is critical for emergency medical response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical manifestations and outcomes of patients with massive intranasal D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) overdose.
- To document serum and gastric concentrations of LSD in overdose cases.
- To inform emergency treatment protocols for severe LSD toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Case series of eight patients presenting after intranasal self-administration of large amounts of LSD tartrate powder.
- Clinical assessment including vital signs, neurological status, and laboratory tests.
- Measurement of serum and gastric LSD tartrate concentrations.
Main Results:
- Patients experienced rapid onset of emesis, collapse, sympathetic overactivity, hyperthermia, coma, and respiratory arrest.
- Generalized bleeding and platelet dysfunction were observed in several patients.
- Serum LSD concentrations ranged from 2.1-26 ng/mL; gastric concentrations were 1,000-7,000 µg/100 mL.
Conclusions:
- Massive intranasal LSD overdose is a life-threatening medical emergency.
- The clinical presentation is characterized by severe autonomic and systemic toxicity.
- Supportive care is crucial for recovery from acute, high-dose LSD intoxication.