Description

Lysergamides are a group of NPS with hallucinogenic properties and are derivatives of the internationally controlled (+)-Lysergide (LSD). Since 2015, no lysergamide has been placed under international control.


Chemical structure

While the molecules of lysergamides have a complex structure, they all share a common motif with simpler tryptamines (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Chemical structures of lysergamides



Note: The key structural similarity between these analogues and tryptamine is highlighted in red.
Source: UNODC, The challenge of New Psychoactive Substances - A technical update (United Nations publication, 2024).

Sixteen lysergamides have been reported to UNODC including analogues with structural modifications of LSD such as 1-acetyl-LSD (ALD-52), 1-methyl-LSD (1M-LSD, MLD-41), 1-cyclopropylmethanoyl-LSD (1cP-LSD), 1-propionyl-LSD (1P-LSD), 1-butyryl-LSD (1B-LSD), 1-valeryl-LSD (1V-LSD) and lysergic acid 2,4-dimethylazetidide (LSZ).


Commonly used forms

Routes of administration for classic hallucinogens, as either pills or powders, include nasal insufflation, inhalation, ingestion, and intravenous injection. These routes can also be used for the delivery of potent psychedelic hallucinogens, such as (+)-Lysergide (LSD) or N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-substituted phenethylamines. These substances are normally consumed via the sublingual/buccal route employing “blotters” impregnated with the psychoactive substance. Figure 2 shows classic hallucinogens commonly used forms.

Figure 2: Classic hallucinogens commonly used forms



Source: UNODC, The challenge of New Psychoactive Substances - A technical update (United Nations publication, 2024).


Reported adverse effects

Figure 3 shows reported effects of classic hallucinogens.

Figure 3: Reported effects of classic hallucinogens


Source: UNODC, The challenge of New Psychoactive Substances - A technical update (United Nations publication, 2024).


References

UNODC, The challenge of New Psychoactive Substances - A technical update (United Nations publication, 2024).

UNODC, Early Warning Advisory on New Psychoactive Substances Dashboard, accessed 27 September 2024.

Last update: 30/09/2024