Mushroom Addiction: Risks of Psilocybin Use

A man stares out the car window, wondering: Can you get addicted to mushrooms?
Updated December 29, 2023
Updated December 29, 2023
Picture of Authored By:

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Picture of Edited By:

Edited By:

Amy Leifeste

Picture of Medically Reviewed By:

Medically Reviewed By:

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

Picture of Authored By:

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Picture of Edited By:

Edited By:

Amy Leifeste

Picture of Medically Reviewed By:

Medically Reviewed By:

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

A man stares out the car window, wondering: Can you get addicted to mushrooms?

Table of Contents

FAQs

Are psilocybin mushrooms addictive? Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are less addictive than widely abused substances like opioids and stimulants. People who regularly consume mushrooms often do not conform to conventional addiction patterns, even though some may persist in use to experience the pleasurable sensations associated with it and develop potentially resulting problematic and compulsive usage patterns.

This guide explores the effects of psilocybin mushrooms, the associated risks, the limited potential for mushroom addiction, and shows you how to get help if you or a loved one is grappling with addiction issues.

Can You Get Addicted to Mushrooms (Psilocybin)?

Are mushrooms addictive, then? Recent studies indicate that psilocybin lacks addictive properties, and discontinuation does not lead to physical symptoms. However, additional research is required to flesh out these findings.

Following several days of psilocybin consumption, individuals may undergo psychological withdrawal and face challenges adapting to reality. Consistent use can lead to the formation of tolerance to psilocybin’s effects, with cross-tolerance observed with other substances like LSD and mescaline.

A woman stares out at the lake, as she thinks about the adverse effects of a mushroom addiction

Risks of Recreational Mushroom Use

Recreational use of mushrooms containing psilocybin carries inherent dangers. Risks include physical, psychological, and social implications. Developing an awareness of the complications associated with the consumption of psilocybin-containing mushrooms can help you make more informed decisions about their use.

Psychological effects

Psilocybin can induce alterations in mood, perception, and thought processes, triggering hallucinations and altering consciousness. The impact of psilocybin on individuals can be unpredictable, with some facing anxiety or paranoia in what is commonly referred to as a bad trip.

Typical psychological effects associated with mushrooms include:

  • Visual or auditory hallucinations
  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety
  • Psychosis
  • Synesthesia (blending of senses)
  • Altered perception
  • Euphoric mood
  • Inflated sense of well-being

Physical effects

Apart from the sought-after psychological effects, psilocybin can trigger unwanted physical symptoms, such as:

  • Numb face
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Increased blood pressure and heart rate 
  • Excessive sweating
  • High body temperature
  • Muscle weakness

Potential long-term effects

Some people experience a lingering sensation of psilocybin mushroom effects long after discontinuing use. This phenomenon is known informally as a flashback and clinically described as HPPD (hallucination persisting perception disorder). Flashbacks, although not universally distressing, can be intense, unpleasant, and persist for an extended period after substance use has ceased.

Heightened risk of accidents

The use of mushrooms can degrade coordination and judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Incidents may range from minor mishaps to more severe occurrences such as car accidents (resulting from impaired driving) or physical altercations.

Legal ramifications

Psilocybin mushrooms are classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, indicating a strong abuse potential, no accepted medical use in the United States, and a lack of recognized safety under medical supervision. 

Psychological dependency

Some people may develop psychological dependence on mushrooms, leading to problematic drug use and adverse consequences in various aspects of their lives.

Mushrooms may have potential therapeutic benefits when administered in a controlled setting by trained professionals. However, attempting to use the substance for medicinal purposes without professional supervision is strongly discouraged.

Psilocybin’s Interactions with Other Substances

Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, can interact with other substances, leading to unpredictable effects and potential health risks. By becoming aware of these interactions, people can make more informed decisions and mitigate potential harm.

  • Drug interactions: Serotonin syndrome risk when combined with other serotonergic drugs like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Enhanced effects when combined with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors). Increased sedation and respiratory depression when used with central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
  • Medical interactions: Potential complications for individuals with a history of cardiovascular issues. Increased risk for those with a history of psychotic disorders. Possible worsening of psychiatric conditions
  • Overall precautions: Individuals should disclose mushroom use to healthcare professionals to prevent adverse interactions with prescribed medications. Avoid combining psilocybin-containing mushrooms with other substances without proper knowledge of potential interactions. Exercise caution and moderation to reduce the risk of negative health outcomes. 

Being informed about psilocybin’s interactions with other substances can help people considering its use, promoting safer and more responsible psychedelic experiences.

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Get Treatment for Drug Addiction at California Detox

We treat all types of addictions at California Detox in Laguna Beach, CA, including addiction to mushrooms, using a combination of holistic and evidence-based interventions.

Many people find that supervised medical detoxification provides the smoothest pathway to ongoing treatment. Access medications and continuous clinical care to reduce the likelihood of relapse disrupting your early recovery.

All treatment programs at California Detox draw from these therapies:

Call 949.694.8305 when you are committed to embracing life substance-free.

FAQs

Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are less addictive than widely abused substances like opioids and stimulants. People who regularly consume mushrooms often do not conform to conventional addiction patterns, even though some may persist in use to experience the pleasurable sensations associated with it and develop potentially resulting problematic and compulsive usage patterns.
Following several days of psilocybin consumption, individuals may undergo psychological withdrawal and face challenges adapting to reality. Consistent use can lead to the formation of tolerance to psilocybin’s effects, with cross-tolerance observed with other substances like LSD and mescaline.

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