NCJ Number
141198
Date Published
1992
Length
58 pages
Annotation
This report presents the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) assessment of the current situation with respect to LSD in the United States, based on reports from DEA field offices and Federal health care agencies.
Abstract
LSD is available in almost every State, with northern California the main source of supply. Retail distribution networks usually consist of young adults who have known each other through long years of association and common interests. Public and private mail systems appear to be the main means used to transport and distribute retail and wholesale quantities of LSD. An average dosage unit costs about $5 and often as little as $1 or $2. In 1990, the National High School Senior Survey reported for the first time that more students used LSD than cocaine during the year. The National College Student Survey also reported an increased use of LSD by its sample population during 1990. Due to the ability of LSD traffickers to control dosage potencies, today's LSD is relatively low-potency compared to the LSD available in the 1960's and 1970's. As a result, many users now mistakenly believe that the LSD of the 1990's is "safe." This false perception, coupled with LSD's increased availability and low cost, has enhanced its appeal, especially among many younger people. Figure and appended figures, tables, map, and glossary