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6d ago

Psilocybin Use in the U.S. Surges, Outpacing Cocaine and Raising Safety Concerns

New research highlights a dramatic rise in magic mushroom consumption since 2019, alongside a sharp increase in poison control calls, particularly among unsupervised users.

A man holds psilocybin mushrooms, informally referred to as "magic mushrooms," in his hand.
Image
A vendor bags psilocybin mushrooms at a cannabis marketplace in Los Angeles, on May 24, 2019.

Overview

  • Psilocybin use among U.S. adults surpassed cocaine, illicit opioids, methamphetamine, and LSD in 2023, with consumption up 188% among those 30 and older since 2019.
  • Adolescents and young adults have also shown significant increases, with use among 12th graders rising 53% over the same period.
  • Reports of psilocybin-related exposures to poison control centers jumped 201% in adults, 317% in adolescents, and 723% in children between 2019 and 2023.
  • Experts emphasize the need for supervised use as unsupervised consumption has led to adverse psychological and medical incidents, including cardiovascular risks and hospitalizations.
  • Decriminalization in cities like Denver and states such as Oregon has fueled accessibility, but most psilocybin use remains recreational rather than therapeutic despite its potential mental health benefits.