Infographic showing LSD and MDMA symbols with 'Candy Flipping?' text, warning about drug combination risks

What is Candy Flipping?

Infographic showing LSD and MDMA symbols with 'Candy Flipping?' text, warning about drug combination risks

Candy flipping is a term used to describe a recreational drug experience that combines the use of LSD and MDMA. It has become popular among certain subcultures and is often sought after for its unique and intense effects. The process of candy flipping typically involves taking LSD first, followed by MDMA approximately 4 hours later.

Why four hours later?

The reason behind this specific timeline is to allow the user to fully experience the peak effects of LSD before introducing the euphoric and empathogenic qualities of MDMA. LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, is a hallucinogenic drug known for its mind-altering and psychedelic effects. It typically takes around 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects of LSD to kick in, and the peak experience can last for several hours.

What are the Effects of Mixing?

Despite the typical effects of candyflipping, the effects can vary greatly depending on your tolerance, dosage, and the specific qualities of the substances used. It is crucial to approach candyflipping with caution. Especially if this isn’t something you would typically do. So, before contemplating the mixture of LSD and MDMA, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms that you can experience from each :

The most common symptoms of LSD are:

The most common symptoms of MDMA are:

  • feelings of closeness and affection
  • increased empathy
  • elevated mood and energy
  • increased sensitivity
  • visual distortion
  • muscle cramping
  • teeth clenching
  • chills
  • sweating
  • increase in body temperature
  • nausea

How Long Does Candy flipping Last?

The duration of candy flipping does depend. As mentioned above, those who partake in candyflipping will look to experience the peak of LSD before moving onto MDMA to squeeze as much out of the experience as possible, which can last for hours, depending on how your body processes each drug. Below is a summary of how long candyflipping can typically last :

  • The effects of LSD start to appear between 20 and 90 minutes after ingestion and can persist for up to 12 hours, possibly even longer. 
  • MDMA, on the other hand, usually takes effect within 20 to 70 minutes after LSD consumption and lasts for approximately 3 to 6 hours. 
  • Considering these timeframes, the candyflipping journey can span anywhere from 12 to 24 hours.

What is the Comedown Like?

Both LSD and MDMA can come with some very unpleasant aftereffects.

The aftereffects from LSD typically last for approximately 24 hours and may involve emotions of sadness, anxiety, and distrust. 

Some users have reported enduring aftereffect symptoms for days or even months.

The aftereffects from MDMA can be somewhat more challenging. The majority of people feel a strong desire to take another dose to overcome the discomfort experienced by an MDMA comedown. Although this may seem like a quick fix at the time, it is only delaying the inevitable.

We have compiled a list of the symptoms typically experienced from taking LSD and MDMA together :

candy flipping side effects

Risks of Candyflipping

Combining MDMA and LSD, known as candyflipping, seems to enhance the strength of MDMA, heightening the possibility of encountering adverse and potentially dangerous consequences. 

Besides the aforementioned impacts, it is essential to know two significant factors if you are contemplating candyflipping :

Dehydration

The combination of LSD and MDMA can amplify the impact of MDMA, which can then increase the chances of experiencing dehydration and heatstroke, which are commonly associated with the majority of deaths related to MDMA.

To prevent this, it is essential to maintain hydration and refrain from engaging in excessive physical exertion. 

However, in some circumstances, such as in a club or at a concert, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to refrain from physical exertion as all the body wants to do is dance or, at the very least, move around to share your ecstasy with others, so it is crucial to be aware of water intoxication before using MDMA, which can occur when excessive amounts of water are consumed rapidly.

Educating yourself on the dangerous effects of mixing MDMA with other substances can help plant seeds that may be the difference between life, illness or even death. 

Bad Trip

MDMA is a psychoactive drug that primarily affects serotonin levels in the brain, inducing feelings of euphoria, empathy, and heightened sensory perception.

When consumed alongside LSD, MDMA can amplify the emotional and sensory effects of both substances, potentially leading to a more immersive and intense psychedelic experience.

However, it is essential to note that the increased intensity and duration of the trip also correspond to an increased risk of having a bad trip. A bad trip typically involves intense anxiety, paranoia, confusion, and overwhelming negative emotions that can be difficult to manage or control. 

Additionally, individuals with underlying mental health conditions may be at a higher risk of having a bad trip when using LSD and MDMA. These substances can potentially trigger or worsen symptoms of conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.

Tips for Your Safety

It’s best to avoid mixing LSD and MDMA since there are so many unknowns. If you’re going to candy flip, though, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of some negative effects, including :

Familiarise yourself with the signs of an overdose. If you plan on consuming substances or being in the presence of those who do, it is crucial to be able to identify the symptoms of an adverse reaction or overdose. If you or someone else experiences a heightened body temperature, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty in breathing, intense aggression or paranoia, it is imperative to contact emergency services. Additionally, seizures and a loss of consciousness may occur.

Testing the drugs. It is essential to verify the legitimacy and purity of your drugs by conducting tests. Drug testing kits can be bought online and are commonly available at music festivals.

Begin with a small dosage and gradually increase. It is always sound advice to start small when dealing with something you have no experience in, as the likelihood of experiencing severe consequences intensifies with higher amounts. Adhering to a small dosage is crucial, particularly if you have never engaged in candyflipping previously. Ensure that you allow sufficient time for the effects of the initial small dosage to manifest before consuming additional quantities.

Have a trip sitter. Ensure you have a companion to oversee your safety during recreational activities. Your companion must be trustworthy and sober, capable of recognising any potential issues that may arise and providing assistance if necessary.

Choose your surroundings carefully. The outcomes of your candyflip experience may be uncertain, and hallucinations are likely to occur. Being in a secure and well-known place is advisable if you encounter any difficulties.

Stay hydrated. Ensure you maintain proper hydration by regularly consuming water before, during, and after physical activity to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration. Regular water consumption will also reduce the likelihood of excessive water consumption in one sitting, which can lead to water poisoning.

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Dangers of Candy flipping 

While some may appreciate the more prolonged and intense experience, it is important to note that this may not always be desirable. LSD trips can already be overwhelming and unpredictable, and the added intensity from MDMA can potentially lead to a more challenging and difficult experience. It may increase the chances of experiencing anxiety, paranoia, confusion, and even a loss of control.

Considering the potential risks and unpredictable outcomes, it is generally recommended to keep LSD and MDMA separated, which allows for a more controlled and manageable experience with each substance individually.

It is crucial to prioritise personal safety and well-being when experimenting with any psychoactive substances, and seeking professional guidance and support is always advisable.

How We Can Help

At Rehab Guide, we specialise in advising and supporting those who require information and support regarding drug use and substance addiction.

Finding the right rehab for you or a loved one who is addicted to drugs such as LSD or MDMA can be challenging. Our team can help; using our extensive database of rehab clinics and treatment plans, we can find the right residential centre for the person and the addiction.

If you have any further questions about the combination of drugs and their effects or if you or someone close are struggling with substance abuse, then we can help you get the treatment you need to get sober. 

Contact our support team today via telephone, email or online chat to learn more.