Unexpected Detection of Psilocybin in a 100 mg Tramadol Tablet: A Forensic Case Report
SHILAP Revista de lepidopterología – December 01, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A startling finding in Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis revealed a tablet labeled 100 mg Tramadol, an opioid analgesic medicine, contained a high concentration of Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen. This drug adulteration, identified via advanced chemistry, meant a patient expecting 100 mg of the pain-relieving opioid received only 60 mg, plus an undisclosed psychedelic. Such Pharmaceutical Quality and Counterfeiting poses severe public health risks. Understanding the pharmacology of these substances is vital for Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Background: Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for moderate pain. Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is a naturally occurring psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, often referred to as "magic mushrooms" and is classified as a Schedule I substance. This case report aimed to present the unexpected detection of psilocybin in a 100 mg tramadol tablet.Case Presentation: This case report presents the forensic identification of psilocybin in a tablet labeled as tramadol 100 mg. Analysis was conducted using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). A high concentration of psilocybin was confirmed, and additionally, 60 mg of tramadol was detected in the analyzed tablet.Discussion: Active compounds of some mushrooms, such as Psilocybe cubensis and Paneolus, have psychotropic agents with hallucinogenic effects. Psilocybin is a prodrug of psilocin, meaning it's converted into psilocin in the body, and Psilocin then acts as a serotonin receptor agonist, particularly on the 5-HT2A receptor, leading to visual hallucinations, euphoria, and altered cognition. These effects can be particularly dangerous when combined with other opioids and psychoactive substances that do not have a determined dosage and intensify each other's effects.Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of drug monitoring and advanced toxicological analysis in combating the public health threat posed by drug adulteration.