National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

What is the most common long-term side effect of LSD use?

1. Chronic psychosis

2. Post-hallucinogenic perceptual disorder

3. Severe anxiety

4. Cognitive decline

The correct answer is: Post-hallucinogenic perceptual disorder

The most common long-term side effect of LSD use is post-hallucinogenic perceptual disorder, often referred to as HPPD (Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder). This condition is characterized by persistent changes in perception, including visual distortions and flashbacks to previous LSD experiences, even long after the drug has been taken. Individuals with HPPD may experience ongoing visual effects such as trails, halos, or afterimages, which can affect their daily lives and overall functioning. This side effect stands out because it directly relates to the visual and perceptual phenomena that LSD is known to induce during its acute effects. While other long-term effects of LSD may occur, they are not as commonly documented or as widely recognized in clinical and experiential reports as HPPD. Long-term implications like chronic psychosis, severe anxiety, or cognitive decline can certainly arise from various substance-use disorders and may be associated with a broader range of substances or pre-existing mental health issues. However, they are not as specifically linked to LSD as post-hallucinogenic perceptual disorder, which is a distinct condition recognized in the context of hallucinogen use.