Clinical toxicology of ‘magic mushroom’ ingestion
N. R. Peden, Katrina Macaulay, Ann F Bissett, J. Crooks, Alessandra Pelosi
Postgraduate Medical Journal September 1, 1981 DOI: 10.1136/pgmj.57.671.543
Summary
Ingesting 'magic mushrooms' can lead to distinct clinical features, as observed in 27 cases of mushroom poisoning. Common symptoms included mydriasis (dilated pupils), hyperreflexia, and significant disorders of perception and affect. Clinical toxicology points to *Psilocybe semilanceata* as the likely species involved in these psychedelic experiences. The **MAGIC** of these fungi, long part of traditional medicine, poses unique challenges for modern medicine and toxicology in drug studies involving ingestion.
Abstract
Summary The clinical features are reported in 27 cases of ‘magic mushroom’ ingestion. Mydriasis and hyperreflexia were common as were disorders of perception and affect. Psilocybe semilanceata appears to have been the species of fungus involved.