Magic Mushrooms and Children:

 What are magic mushrooms and what effects do they have on the body?

Psilocybin and/or psilocin is a chemical found in a specific type of mushroom which can be ingested orally. Within 30-60 minutes of ingestion, individuals can experience restlessness, increased heart rate, weakness, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, auditory and/or visual hallucinations, and an altered sense of reality. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of
psilocybin due to their smaller body size and developing brains. As a board-certified pediatrician, Dr. Sima Stein treats children through their teens and the experimentation and/or use of psychedelics, including mushrooms, can be a topic of discussion. Here, we discuss a few common questions regarding magic mushrooms and the associated effects on children.

How can magic mushrooms be harmful?

In addition to the physical effects of mushrooms, when taken in high doses, individuals can experience paranoia, fear, panic reactions, and psychotic-like episodes, which in some cases can be long-lasting. In these circumstances, individuals under the influence of psilocybin can be a danger to both themselves and others. Moreover, ingestion of psilocybin mushrooms could
lead to accidental poisoning if the mushroom is misidentified as a variety of poisonous mushroom and cause greater psychological effects if laced with other hallucinogens such as LSD or PCP. In older children and teens, experimentation or peer influence can also play a role. With the growing popularity of “natural” or “plant-based” substances on social media, some adolescents may be curious and try them without knowing the full extent of their effects.

Are magic mushrooms illegal?
Psilocybin is illegal and considered a Schedule I substance in the United States. Though there is ongoing research regarding the use of psilocybin in medical conditions such as depression, PTSD, Parkinson’s, and substance use disorders, the public is advised to not self-treat mental health disorders with psychoactive substances or use these substances outside of medical settings given the health risks.

What are the neurocognitive effects of psilocybin?

Psilocybin has been shown to cause changes of the brain’s functional connectivity and network activity. These areas govern an individual’s sense of space, time, self, and can impact concentration. In research studies, the majority of brain activity returned to normal a few days after ingestion of psilocybin, however the reduction in functional connectivity, specifically in relation to the hippocampus, can last weeks. The hippocampus is important for memory and perception of self. Psilocybin's potential for long-term side effects necessitates particular caution in children given the possible impacts on their development.

What should I do if I suspect ingestion?

If you think your child may have eaten a magic mushroom or is showing unusual behavior (especially hallucinations or confusion), call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency department right away. If possible, also bring a sample of the mushroom for identification.

How can I try to prevent exposure in my child?

We recommend educating children to never eat wild mushrooms or plants they eat outside. In older children, try to monitor trends which encourage psychedelic use in teens and talk to your child about these topics. For additional guidance and support, you can schedule an appointment with board-certified pediatrician, Dr. Sima Stein, here.