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Psilocybin Mushrooms

Hallucinogens

Also known as: Shrooms, Magic Mushrooms, Mushies, Caps, Boomers

Medical Review & Editorial Standards

All content is written, edited, and medically reviewed by licensed professionals with expertise in addiction medicine and behavioral health.

BZ
Author

Benjamin Zohar

NCACIP

Nationally Certified Advanced Clinical Intervention Professional and recovery advocate in long-term recovery, specializing in intervention services and treatment coordination.

EZ
Editor

Ezra Zohar, M.S.Ed.

Educational Specialist

Educational Specialist with M.S. in Secondary Education, reviewing educational content focused on addiction awareness and recovery.

BM
Medical Reviewer

Brandon McNally

RN

Registered Nurse with specialized training in addiction medicine and behavioral health nursing.

Last Updated

November 2025

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What is Psilocybin Mushrooms?

Psilocybin mushrooms contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. They have been used in spiritual and healing ceremonies for thousands of years. Recent research shows potential therapeutic benefits for depression, anxiety, and PTSD when used in controlled clinical settings.

Effects

Visual hallucinations, altered perception of time, euphoria, spiritual experiences, changes in thought patterns, enhanced sensory perception, distorted sense of self, nausea, increased heart rate

Risks & Dangers

Bad trips (anxiety, paranoia, fear), flashbacks, psychological distress, impaired judgment leading to dangerous situations, nausea and vomiting, panic attacks, confusion. Risk of consuming poisonous mushrooms by mistake.

Withdrawal Symptoms

No significant physical withdrawal symptoms. Some users may experience temporary anxiety or depression.

Addiction Potential

Low - Psilocybin is not considered physically addictive. Tolerance develops rapidly but also diminishes quickly. Psychological dependence is rare.

Duration

Effects typically last 4-6 hours

Legal Status

Schedule I controlled substance in the US. Illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture. Some cities/states have decriminalized possession.

Alcohol Interaction Warning

Mixing Psilocybin Mushrooms with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Combining substances increases the risk of:

  • • Respiratory depression and overdose
  • • Unpredictable effects and loss of consciousness
  • • Increased toxicity to liver and other organs
  • • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviors

Learn more about alcohol use disorder and polysubstance use.

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Published: July 15, 2024 • Last Updated: November 25, 2025

Medically reviewed drug information for educational purposes

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