lysergide /līsur″jīd/ [German: Lyserg-Säure-Diäthylamid, (lysergic acid diethylamide).] , a psychotomimetic, semisynthetic medication that is a derivative of ergot that acts at multiple sites in the central nervous system from the cortex to the spinal cord. In susceptible individuals, as little as 20 to 25 mg of the potent drug may cause pupillary dilation, increased blood pressure, hyperreflexia, tremor, muscle weakness, piloerection, and increased body temperature. Larger doses also produce dizziness, drowsiness, paresthesia, euphoria or dysphoria, and synesthesias. Colors may be heard, sounds visualized, and time is felt to pass slowly. Psychological dependence may develop, and use of lysergide is associated with significant hazards, such as panic, serious depression, paranoid behavior, and prolonged psychotic episodes. Also called acid, LSD. See also hallucinogen.
