Since late 2023, gas stations and smoke shops in Virginia have been selling mushroom gummies marketed as nootropics or psychedelics, labeled to contain Amanita muscaria or proprietary mushroom blends. Unlike psilocybin-containing mushrooms, A. muscaria is legal but can cause gastrointestinal upset, agitation, and seizures. Between September 2023 and June 2024, five patients, including one child, were evaluated in Virginia after ingesting such gummies. Because the actual contents are unknown, samples from five brands were tested using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Eating Diamond Shruumz microdosing chocolate bars was linked to severe poisonings, including higher odds of hospitalization, ICU admission, seizures, and breathing tube placement compared to other mushroom chocolate products. Among 180 cases reported across 34 states from January to October 2024, 73 people were hospitalized, 38 required intensive care, 29 needed intubation, and two died. Eating larger amounts increased the risk. Testing found psychoactive substances such as muscimol, psilocin, and kavalactones in some products. The products were recalled, and consumers were warned of poisoning risks due to variable ingredients and lack of regulatory oversight.