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Hallucinogenic Mushrooms

Richard H. Schwartz, D. E. Smith

Clinical Pediatrics February 1, 1988 DOI: 10.1177/000992288802700202 (opens in new tab)

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Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Review with small survey component Peer reviewed
Sample size 174
Population Adolescents already identified as substance abusers
Topics Psilocybin
Keywords Hallucinogen Substance abuse Ingestion Drugs of abuse Pharmacology Traditional medicine
Citations 51
Key findings 26% of 174 adolescent substance abusers reported using hallucinogenic mushrooms, frequently in combination with alcohol or other drugs.

Abstract

Ingestion of mushrooms containing psilocybin produces hallucinogenic effects and has become a popular form of substance abuse among some adolescents and young adults. We have reviewed the medical literature on psilocybin mushrooms and describe current patterns of use, provide background material on the botony and pharmacology of these crude drugs, and report results of a small study on usage patterns among identified adolescent drug abusers. Among 174 adolescents already identified as substance abusers, 45 (26%) reported having used hallucinogenic mushrooms, frequently in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs. An average intake of 2-4 mushrooms was obtained for about $8, and led to intoxication for 5-6 hours. Mixing of intoxicants such as alcohol, marijuana, and psilocybin mushrooms was the rule. The acute adverse reactions may have been the result of drug synergy. Pediatricians should become aware of the specific patterns of the use of hallucinogenic drugs by adolescents and consider the possiblity of such use when evaluating a delerious or psychotic adolescent.

Comparable studies

Other cross-sectional and survey studies on psilocybin, most cited first.

Study Year Design Participants
Survey study of challenging experiences after ingesting psilocybin mushrooms: Acute and enduring positive and negative consequences Individuals who had consumed psilocybin mushrooms and experienced a psychologically... 2016 Cross-sectional survey n = 1,993
The Challenging Experience Questionnaire: Characterization of challenging experiences with psilocybin mushrooms Internet survey respondents reporting challenging experiences with psilocybin 2016 Questionnaire development and validation
Psychedelics and Mental Health: A Population Study Adult population in the United States 2013 Cross-sectional survey n = 130,152
Cessation and reduction in alcohol consumption and misuse after psychedelic use Individuals with prior alcohol use disorder who reported cessation or reduction in... 2019 Cross-sectional survey n = 343
Patterns of simultaneous polysubstance use in drug using university students Drug-using university students 2006 Cross-sectional survey n = 149

Citations in the library

Cited by 15

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