Are there any dangerous interactions between Lexapro and LSD? While the effects of combining psychedelics and antidepressants haven’t been studied extensively, we have some data to draw conclusions from. Read on for helpful information.
TL;DR
Possibility: Impure LSD and Serotonin Syndrome
Lexapro is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant medication that works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. It is generally considered safe to take Lexapro, but combining it with other substances that elevate serotonin levels can lead to life-threatening side effects.
One possible complication that can occur when taking Lexapro and LSD together is serotonin syndrome. It’s a condition characterized by dangerously high levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. Some users who have experienced serotonin syndrome report experiencing blurred vision, agitation, hallucinations, nausea, and fever.
LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) itself may not affect serotonin receptors significantly, but according to anecdotal evidence, the tabs may also contain other psychedelics such as NBOMes or DOC. It’s recommended to test your LSD in a lab or at a reliable dealer, as impure LSD can contain dangerous substances that may cause serotonin syndrome when taken together with serotonergic antidepressants.
While the actual safety of Lexapro and LSD use has not been studied in depth, it is generally recommended that users avoid combining these substances. Always consult a psychiatry professional before taking any new medications or using psychedelics to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Case: LSD Flashback Syndrome Triggered by SSRI Meds
In 2007, the Ochsner Journal published a case of a patient who used to take LSD long ago – 25 years prior to taking SSRIs. After taking paroxetine (not the active ingredient in Lexapro, but also an SSRI), he started reliving acid trips from his past. He experienced very unpleasant hallucinations, which led him to stop taking the medication.
This condition, known as LSD flashback syndrome, or hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), can occur when someone has taken psychedelic drugs like LSD in the past. While most users do not develop HPPD, some have reported experiencing flashbacks to the subjective effects of LSD for several years or even decades after taking the drug.
Editor’s Note
Anecdotal evidence suggests that, in fact, antidepressants and LSD work well together. Many trippers reported improvement of their mental health after occasional LSD use. Sadly, there isn’t enough research about this subject.
Verdict: Lexapro and LSD
So, can you take Lexapro and LSD together? There may be some potential interactions between antidepressant drugs (especially SSRIs) and psychedelics. There is a risk of serotonin syndrome, and it is generally not recommended to mix these two medications. However, clinical trials are needed to fully understand the risks and safety of combining Lexapro and LSD, MDMA, DMT, Ayahuasca, or psilocybin. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are currently being studied in relation to these substances.
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