Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is one of the best-known psychedelic substances of the 20th century. Since its accidental discovery by the Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann in 1943, the drug has polarized opinions: On the one hand, LSD significantly shaped the culture of the 1960s and remains firmly rooted in subculture to this day; on the other hand, it has been illegal for decades. In Germany, LSD was classified as a "non-marketable substance" as early as 1971 and thus rendered illegal. Today, the Narcotics Act (BtMG) governs the criminalization of its production, possession, and trafficking.
More recently, the market has experienced a wave of so-called LSD derivatives (1P-LSD, 1cP-LSD, 1V-LSD, 1D-LSD, 1T-LSD), which, due to chemical modifications, initially did not fall under legal definitions. These "legal" variants are described as prodrugs of LSD: they convert into active LSD after consumption. To counter the rapid market reactions, the legislature introduced the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) in 2016, which has been regularly expanded since then.
The latest addition to this chain is 1S-LSD – a lysergamide whose structure, thanks to a trimethylsilyl group, initially circumvents the regulations of the German New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). Dealers referred to 1S-LSD as the "last legal LSD variant," but the legal loophole is shrinking: a further amendment to the NpSG is scheduled for 2025 to ban this derivative as well.
- 1. Key Takeaways – 1S-LSD Ban
- 2. What is LSD? Origins, chemistry and effects
- 3. Legal framework: BtMG versus NpSG
- 4. The chronology of LSD derivatives in Germany
- 5. Legal status of 1S-LSD in 2025
- 6. Why are LSD derivatives banned? Arguments and risks
- 7. Therapeutic potential and scientific research
- 8. International Perspectives: A Patch of Laws
- 9. The future after the 1S-LSD ban
- 10. And now what?
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11. FAQs
- 11.1 Is LSD illegal in Germany?
- 11.2 What is the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG)?
- 11.3 Why did LSD derivatives such as 1P-LSD or 1D-LSD emerge?
- 11.4 How does 1S-LSD differ from other derivatives?
- 11.5 When will 1S-LSD be banned?
- 11.6 What happens to existing 1S-LSD stocks?
- 11.7 Is the use of LSD a criminal offense?
- 11.8 Are there legal ways to use LSD?
This article provides an in-depth overview of the history of the 1S-LSD prohibition , explains the legal basis, and shows why 1S-LSD represents only a short-term loophole in the law. At the same time, we examine health risks, therapeutic opportunities, and international developments in the handling of LSD.
Key Takeaways – 1S-LSD Ban
- LSD has been illegal in Germany since 1971. The Narcotics Act (BtMG) prohibits its production, trade, and possession.
- NpSG as a reaction to “legal highs”: The NpSG, introduced in 2016, prohibits entire groups of substances in order to prevent rapid derivative development.
- Race of LSD derivatives: 1cP-LSD (2021), 1V-LSD (2022), 1D-LSD and 1T-LSD (2024) were banned one after the other.
- 1S-LSD was the last legal variant because it contains a trimethylsilyl group containing silicon and therefore does not fall under the previous NpSG.
- A ban on 1S-LSD is expected: The BfArM expert committee proposed an amendment to the NpSG in May 2025; the Federal Council could decide on it on October 17, 2025.
- Reasons for the bans: unknown long-term risks, panic attacks and psychotic episodes, uncontrolled black market and public outrage over legally sold derivatives.
- Therapeutic potential: Studies show a reduction in depressive symptoms under controlled conditions. Some countries permit clinical use.
- No successor in sight: With the withdrawal of the developers (Lizard Labs), there is currently no new legal LSD derivative.
What is LSD? Origins, chemistry and effects
Discovery and early use
LSD was synthesized in 1938 by the Basel-based pharmaceutical company Sandoz as part of their research on ergot alkaloids. Albert Hofmann discovered its psychotropic properties on April 19, 1943 – now celebrated as "Bicycle Day" – after accidentally coming into contact with the substance. For several years, Sandoz marketed LSD under the name Delysid as a therapeutic agent in psychotherapy and for research into mental illnesses.
pharmacology
Chemically, LSD belongs to the class of lysergamides and is a derivative of lysergic acid. LSD primarily acts as a partial agonist at serotonin receptors (5-HT₂A) , leading to alterations in perception, thought, and mood. Even microgram doses (20–200 µg) can produce strong effects. LSD exhibits low physical toxicity, but its psychological effects can be very intense.
Criminal classification
As part of a global trend toward restrictive regulations on psychedelic substances, LSD was placed under strict control in the early 1970s. In Germany, LSD was classified as a "non-marketable substance" in 1971, thus prohibiting its production, trade, and possession. Since then, LSD has been listed under Schedule I of the German Narcotics Act (BtMG), meaning that it has no medical use and all activities related to it—with the exception of scientific research—are punishable offenses.
Legal framework: BtMG versus NpSG
Narcotics Act (BtMG)
The German Narcotics Act (BtMG) regulates the handling of classic narcotics. It lists controlled substances in appendices (Annexes I–III). LSD is listed in Annex I, which is why trafficking and possession are criminal offenses. Violations are subject to severe penalties, ranging from fines to several years' imprisonment. Only consumption itself is not a criminal offense; however, in practice, consumption is difficult to separate from possession.
New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG)
The New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) was passed in 2016 to address the growing market for so-called "legal highs." Unlike the Narcotics Act (BtMG), the NpSG does not name individual substances, but rather prohibits entire classes of substances based on their basic chemical structure. The aim is to directly target chemical derivatives that undergo even minor modifications.
The focus of the NpSG (New Psychoactive Substances Act) is primarily on disrupting distribution : manufacturers, importers, and dealers face severe penalties. Possession is also classified as illegal, but prosecution is rare , especially when only small quantities for personal use are involved.
The chronology of LSD derivatives in Germany
Since the introduction of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG), drug policy has been in a constant race between legislators and manufacturers. Chemists have repeatedly developed new LSD derivatives that lie just outside the legal definition. This chapter describes the most important stages.
1P-LSD and 1cP-LSD
The first popular derivative, 1P-LSD , added a propionyl group to the LSD molecule. This modification initially prevented its classification under the German Narcotics Act (BtMG). In response, the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) was amended several times. In 2021, the German government changed the wording of the NpSG to include entire groups of chemical compounds . This led to the prohibition of 1cP-LSD , at the time the best-selling legal lysergamide.
1V-LSD
Following the ban on 1cP-LSD, the laboratory Lizard Labs launched 1V-LSD (valeroyl-LSD) in 2021. This derivative also quickly became popular, but in September 2022, legislators reacted again: the amendment to the German Narcotics Act (NpSG) included 1V-LSD. This constant process of amendments illustrates the authorities' determination to suppress legal LSD variants.
1D-LSD and 1T-LSD
1D-LSD was its successor, appearing on the market in 2023/24. This derivative became popular in Germany in 2024 – it was even sold in vending machines in Baden-Württemberg, attracting media attention. At the end of June 2024, 1D-LSD and 1T-LSD were banned by a further amendment to the German New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). The Jungle World article reports that manufacturers and dealers immediately began promoting a new successor after the ban.
1S-LSD
1S-LSD is the manufacturers' response to the 2024 New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). The molecule adds a trimethylsilyl group , containing silicon , to the well-known 1P-LSD. Because the NpSG only covers derivatives containing the elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine, 1S-LSD remained legal. Wikipedia confirms that this chemical modification made the substance appear as a legal substitute . Retailers in Germany have offered 1S-LSD in the form of blotters, micropellets, or drops since July 2024.
Legal status of 1S-LSD in 2025
Why 1S-LSD initially remained legal
In Germany, 1S-LSD was available as a research chemical . According to Wikipedia, it remained legal in August 2024 because the molecule's structural modification circumvented the existing definitions of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). Retailers like LSD-Legal stated that, based on its chemical composition, they expected 1S-LSD to remain legal until at least June 2025. The legal loophole stemmed from the fact that silicon was not previously included in the NpSG's list of elements.
The road to a ban – as of 2025
However, the German federal legislature is planning another tightening of regulations. On May 13, 2025 , the expert committee of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) met and drafted a proposal for the next amendment to the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). This draft proposes to explicitly list 1S-LSD as a prohibited substance . According to LSD-Legal, the amendment could be passed during the Federal Council meeting on October 17, 2025. Until then, 1S-LSD will remain legal, albeit only for a few months.
Some retailers initially spread the message that the ban would come into effect as early as September 26, 2025. This assessment was based on a draft bill from the Federal Council that had been added to the agenda at short notice. However, the current agenda for the Federal Council meeting on September 26 does not include the amendment, so the ban is now expected to take effect in October 2025 .
Consequences of the ban
With the inclusion of 1S-LSD in the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) , its manufacture, trade, and import become criminal offenses. Possession remains illegal but is generally not prosecuted. Retailers such as LSD-Legal and Chemical Collective announced they would reduce their stocks before the ban takes effect and cease distribution thereafter.
A crucial difference from the past is that the chemical group Lizard Labs , which had consistently developed new derivatives, withdrew from the market in 2024/25. As a result, no new legal LSD derivative is in sight this time – the era of legal lysergamides could be coming to a temporary end.
Why are LSD derivatives banned? Arguments and risks
Health risks and lack of data
Many arguments for banning LSD derivatives relate to unknown long-term effects . The Berlin-based drug support organization Vista points out that there are practically no long-term studies for newer variants like 1D-LSD. Even though LSD has relatively low physical toxicity compared to other drugs, strong hallucinations can lead to panic attacks and psychotic episodes . Its use is highly dependent on dose, setting, and mental state; uncontrolled use carries significant risks.
Furthermore, the Oldenburg online newspaper warns of the flourishing black market , which is characterized by uncontrolled dosages and impurities. LSD derivatives are often sold as "research chemicals" without any quality controls.
Law enforcement and public perception
Another reason for the bans is public perception . When 1D-LSD was legally offered in 2024 and even available in vending machines, it sparked a public outcry. Media reports and politicians demanded a swift legislative response. Lawmakers reacted to maintain control over psychoactive substances and make it more difficult for new users to access them.
Regulatory logic
The NpSG follows a preventive logic : it aims to prevent the continuous production of new chemical variants that have the same effects as banned substances. To achieve this, entire classes of structures are prohibited. This removes the incentive for manufacturers to bring minimally modified molecules to market.
Therapeutic potential and scientific research
While legislation strictly regulates LSD and its derivatives, science is experiencing a renaissance of psychedelics . Studies suggest that LSD – under controlled conditions – could have therapeutic effects on various mental illnesses.
Clinical research
The Oldenburg online newspaper reports that the University of Zurich conducted a study in 2020 in which depressive symptoms were significantly reduced in subjects undergoing LSD therapy. Similarly, Imperial College London is funding clinical trials comparing LSD with conventional antidepressants. The US organization MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) is promoting the controlled medical use of psychedelic substances and is observing increasing acceptance in Europe as well.
Medical applications in Europe
Several countries already permit the controlled use of LSD : In Switzerland, clinical trials with LSD are allowed; in Canada, programs for psychedelic therapy exist. Researchers in Germany are also permitted to use LSD under strict regulations. The focus here is on treating severe depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Debate on decriminalization and regulation
Discussions in Europe are slowly shifting away from outright criminalization towards harm reduction . Politicians like Germany's Federal Drug Commissioner, Burkhard Blienert, are calling for an ideology-free debate on psychedelics. Nevertheless, conservative parties and medical associations warn against premature liberalization without long-term studies.
International Perspectives: A Patch of Laws
Europe
The legal treatment of LSD varies considerably. The Oldenburg online newspaper describes LSD as a non-medicinal substance according to the 1971 UN Convention and provides examples:
- Germany: LSD is prohibited under the Narcotics Act (BtMG); its production and possession are punishable offenses.
- Portugal: Since 2001, possession of small quantities has been decriminalized; instead, therapeutic measures are threatened.
- Czech Republic: Similar practice to Portugal; up to five LSD trips are considered a small amount.
- Netherlands: LSD is illegal, but microdoses with psilocybin-containing truffles exist in a gray area.
- Switzerland: LSD is banned, but is permitted in clinical trials.
These examples illustrate the patchwork of European regulations. More and more countries are examining decriminalization concepts and regulated models.
Worldwide
In the US, LSD is classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act; here, too, there are strict prohibitions and initial clinical research approaches. Countries like Canada and Australia are opening up to psychedelic therapies, while in Latin America, the traditional use of psychedelics such as ayahuasca occupies a special position. Overall, LSD remains prohibited in most countries, but the global debate surrounding its medical use is gaining momentum.
The future after the 1S-LSD ban
With the anticipated ban in autumn 2025, the era of legal LSD derivatives in Germany will come to an end for the time being. Since the innovative chemists at Lizard Labs have withdrawn from the project, and the broad wording of the future New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) eliminates any legal loopholes, no new derivative is expected in the medium term.
This step could have several consequences:
- Return to the black market: Consumers who have legally obtained 1S-LSD may resort to the unregulated black market, where purity and dosage are uncertain.
- More research: The lack of legal derivatives could increase the pressure to establish medical programs . If LSD proves its therapeutic potential in clinical trials, models like those in Switzerland or Canada could be transferred to Germany.
- Drug policy in transition: The growing international debate on psychedelic therapies could lead to legal reforms in the long term. German policymakers will have to weigh the demands for prevention against the recognition of therapeutic potential.
And now what?
The debate surrounding LSD and its derivatives reflects the fundamental conflict between protecting public health and the freedom of research . While the German Narcotics Act (BtMG) clearly focuses on prohibition and prosecution, and the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) allows legislators to quickly register new derivatives, scientific interest in psychedelic therapy is simultaneously growing.
With the planned ban on 1S-LSD in autumn 2025, a chapter in the German drug market will close. The legal LSD derivatives, which were considered a safe and quality-controlled alternative for some users, will disappear. Whether this will lead to a strengthening of the black market or increase the pressure to create therapeutic access remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: the debate surrounding LSD will continue. Researchers will explore its therapeutic potential, while policymakers and society will have to consider what evidence-based drug policy should look like. The end of 1S-LSD offers an opportunity to rethink how we deal with psychedelic substances – beyond blanket bans and fear-mongering.
FAQs
Is LSD illegal in Germany?
Yes. LSD has been classified as a non-marketable substance since 1971 and falls under Schedule I of the German Narcotics Act (BtMG). Its production, trade, and possession are punishable offenses.
What is the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG)?
The New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG), introduced in 2016, prohibits entire classes of chemical substances rather than individual substances in order to prevent "legal highs". It primarily targets manufacturers and dealers; possession is rarely prosecuted.
Why did LSD derivatives like 1P-LSD or 1D-LSD emerge?
Chemists developed LSD derivatives to exploit legal loopholes. By making minor modifications to the molecule, they managed to circumvent the scope of the German Narcotics Act (BtMG) and the early versions of the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG). Legislators responded with regular amendments to the NpSG, which gradually banned 1cP-LSD, 1V-LSD, 1D-LSD, and 1T-LSD.
How does 1S-LSD differ from other derivatives?
1S-LSD is a trimethylsilyl derivative of 1P-LSD. The silicon-containing group prevents it from falling under the previous NpSG definition. Therefore, 1S-LSD was initially legal in Germany.
When will 1S-LSD be banned?
On May 13, 2025, an expert committee of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) submitted a draft amendment to the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) that would prohibit 1S-LSD. The Federal Council is expected to vote on the amendment on October 17, 2025 ; the ban will then come into force within a few days.
What will happen to existing 1S-LSD stocks?
Dealers are currently selling off their remaining stock. Once the ban takes effect, production and sale will become illegal; existing stocks may no longer be sold. Owners must expect their holdings to be confiscated.
Is the use of LSD a criminal offense?
Mere consumption is not a criminal offense under German law, as the Narcotics Act (BtMG) only covers trafficking, possession, production, and distribution . In practice, however, it is hardly possible to consume without possessing, so individuals caught consuming are usually prosecuted for possession.
Are there legal ways to use LSD?
Yes. Clinical trials can be approved in Germany and Switzerland. There, LSD is administered under strict conditions in controlled settings. General medical approval is not currently available.
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