Ranking Drugs by How Much They Affect Your Eyes (Pupil Size, Redness, etc.)

Ever looked in the mirror after a wild night and thought, Whoa, what happened to my eyes? Different substances can make your eyes look totally different—some widen your pupils until they’re all-black saucers, while others leave you with bloodshot or glassy eyes. Let’s break down the science and rank these effects from most to least noticeable.

1. Psychedelics (LSD, Magic Mushrooms): The Pupil Dilators

Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin are famous for causing massive pupil dilation. This happens because they activate serotonin receptors, which affect the muscles in your eyes. Expect wide, glassy eyes that can last up to 12 hours.

Source: MAPS

2. MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly): Big, Wide, and Bright

MDMA increases serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, causing pupils to expand—often to their max size. Combined with heightened emotional intensity, the wide-eyed look is a dead giveaway.

Source: Johns Hopkins University

3. Cocaine: Enlarged Pupils with a Side of Intensity

Cocaine stimulates the nervous system, causing pupils to dilate and eyes to appear sharp and intense. Effects kick in quickly and typically last a few hours.

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse

4. Cannabis: Red, Glassy, and Relaxed

Cannabis doesn’t affect pupil size, but THC causes blood vessels in the eyes to expand, leading to redness and a glassy look. This effect is so common that eye drops are practically a stoner’s best friend.

Source: American Psychological Association

5. Alcohol: Bloodshot Eyes and Droopy Lids

Alcohol causes dehydration and expands blood vessels, making eyes appear red and puffy. It also relaxes facial muscles, often leading to droopy eyelids.

Source: Harvard Medical School

6. Opioids (Heroin, Prescription Painkillers): Pinpoint Pupils

Unlike most drugs, opioids cause pinpoint pupils—tiny, constricted dots that barely react to light. This effect is a key sign of opioid use and can last for hours.

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse

Ranking Recap: Most Noticeable to Least

Psychedelics (LSD, Magic Mushrooms) – Max dilation
MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly) – Wide and bright
Cocaine – Enlarged and intense
Cannabis – Red and glassy
Alcohol – Bloodshot and droopy
Opioids – Pinpoint pupils

FAQs:

Which drug causes the biggest pupil dilation?

LSD and MDMA cause the most extreme pupil dilation, often making eyes look fully black.

Why does cannabis make your eyes red?

THC expands blood vessels in the eyes, causing visible redness.

How long do drug-related eye effects last?

Psychedelics and MDMA effects can last up to 12 hours, while alcohol and cannabis wear off within a few hours. Opioid-induced pinpoint pupils may persist until the substance leaves the system.

Eyes Don’t Lie

Your eyes often reveal what’s going on in your brain. From the massive dilation caused by psychedelics to the bloodshot redness of cannabis, these effects are the result of complex interactions between neurotransmitters and blood vessels. Understanding these changes not only satisfies curiosity but also sheds light on how substances impact the body.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always prioritize your health and well-being.