Question

3. Describe the discovery of LSD by Hoffman and its subsequent applications in research, therapy, and government projects. Where does LSD stand today as a clinical tool? For this one, go back to some of Hoffman’s old papers and briefly review them; potentially use one of his findings to support that its helpful for these applications; from here find at least two other sources that support LSD and Hoffman’s work in today’s environment.

Answer 1

Albert Hofmann was the first one to synthesized LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide) on 16^th Nov 1938. While researching lysergic acid derivatives, which is found in fungus ergot he first synthesized LSD .LSD synthesis was intended to obtain a respiratory and circulatory stimulant .His finding was kept aside for five year ,after five year he decided to re-synthesizing LSD. while doing that he accidentally absorbed a small amount of the drug through his fingertips and he describe the powerful effect LSD. And on 19^th April 1943 He performed a self-experiment to determine the true effects of LSD with 0.25 milligrams on the way back home his journey on a bicycle was filled with anxiety ,so this day is called Bicycle Day .

In the field of therapy it is used to treat forms of mental illness, including neurosis, psychosis and depression.US CIA ran a project call MKULTRA also called CIA mind control program to test the effect of LSD ,which was illegal and kept secret.

In today’s world LSD is mainly used as a recreational drug. And recent study is carried on to find it use in end-of-life anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder , cancer, and addiction treatment.