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The Effects of Mushrooms & Opiate Withdrawal

Opiate withdrawal occurs when people discontinue using drugs like oxycodone or heroin following continued administration. Many people take mushrooms containing the hallucinogen psilocybin because of their perception-altering effects, which may include visual, tactile and auditory hallucinations.

  1. Psychological Effects

    • The effects of psilocybin mushrooms primarily cause psychological disturbances including hallucinations and feelings of excitement or euphoria. Opiate withdrawal often causes increased anxiety, low mood and intense cravings for the drug that often lead to relapse.

    Physical Effects

    • The acute effects of opiate withdrawal include vomiting, diarrhea, fever and flu-like symptoms, while psilocybin mushrooms can cause dilated pupils, nausea and increased sweating.

    Adverse Reactions

    • When taken in large doses, hallucinogenic mushrooms can cause “bad trips,” which include feelings of intense anxiety and frightening hallucinations. While not particularly dangerous, opiate withdrawal may cause lasting depression and dysphoria in the form of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), according to Addictions and Recovery.

    Prevention/Solution

    • According to Brown University, ingesting smaller doses of mushrooms in a familiar setting with a trusted sitter can decrease the likelihood of having a bad trip. Prescription drugs like Suboxone and methadone can help alleviate opiate withdrawals, while over-the-counter pain relievers and sleep aides commonly address symptoms like insomnia or pain.

    Warning

    • The only way to completely avoid the risks associated with mushrooms is to abstain from using them altogether. If you experience difficulty breathing, severe nausea or loss of consciousness after taking mushrooms, seek medical attention immediately.

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