The psilocybin magical shrooms psilocybin is undergoing a dramatic transformation from illicit recreational drug to promising mental health treatment. It’s now possible that microdoses of the drug may be useful in treating conditions including PTSD, anorexia nervosa and opioid dependence.
Is mushroom a protein or vegetable?
However, a bad trip is still quite likely and can be terrifying, with a range of possible effects including paranoia, hallucinations, panic attacks, fear of death, and perceptual changes that could lead to confusion and anxiety. Mushrooms can also cause a feeling of unreality and delusions that can last up to six hours.
In some cases, the drug can trigger an onset of psychosis or a severe psychological disturbance that can be life-threatening. This can be caused by an improper dose, the combination of other drugs or substances such as alcohol and nicotine, or by the use of certain foods or supplements. It can also be triggered by underlying depression or anxiety, which must be treated before using the drug.
People can also experience long-term side effects from psilocybin, which may include memory problems and flashbacks. While more research is needed, these can occur several weeks, months, or even years after taking the drug. This could be due to the drug’s ability to permanently alter perceptions and change moods, which can continue well after the effects of the mushroom have worn off. Psilocybin must be used under the supervision of a trained practitioner, which is why only regulated health care practitioners who are authorized to treat patients with controlled drugs can request access to it through the Special Access Program.