[Intoxications by hallucinogenic mushrooms]

Ann Med Interne (Paris). 2000 Oct;151 Suppl B:B16-9.
[Article in French]

Abstract

In the context of excessive use of natural or synthetic psychoactive substances, with stimulating, psychedelic and hallucinogenic effects, an increase, if not a recurrence, in consumption of Psilocybe semilanceata has been observed in France over some fifteen years. Psilocybin and psilocin are the active compounds, responsible for the hallucinogenic effects and are a part of the substance group, derived from tryptamine and characterized by an indole nucleus. We report a clinical case observed in an emergency unit and review the historical, epidemiological and pharmacological data now available for these intoxications. Of particular interests in hallucinogenic mushroom abuse are: increased consumption in the context of youth cultural and entertainment movements; possible difficulties in the diagnosis in emergency conditions; possibility of severe and fatal complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hallucinogens / poisoning*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mushroom Poisoning* / diagnosis
  • Psilocybin / poisoning*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Hallucinogens
  • Psilocybin