Experts have investigated the negatives of taking shroomies for the gloomys. 

In a comprehensive meta-analysis of six high-level clinical trials, a team of US researchers has provided new insights into the safety of psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in ‘magic mushrooms’, for treating depression and anxiety. 

The study, involving 528 patients, reveals a tolerable adverse effect profile for therapeutic doses of psilocybin, although it acknowledges the need for more research on rare and long-term effects.

The analysis highlighted several common, but typically short-lived, side effects associated with psilocybin compared to other treatments. 

These included headaches, nausea, anxiety, dizziness, and fluctuations in blood pressure. Notably, these symptoms were generally mild and subsided within 48 hours.

Headache occurrences were reported with a relative risk of 1.99 compared to controls, but nausea presented a significantly higher relative risk of 8.85. Instances of anxiety and dizziness were also notably higher than in comparative treatments.

The researchers pointed out that, despite these side effects, psilocybin does not carry risks of paranoia or transient thought disorders, which are often concerns with psychoactive substances.

One of the study's lead researchers, commenting on the findings, said; “While we see significant acute reactions, particularly nausea and dizziness, these effects are generally manageable and transient. Importantly, our data do not suggest any substantial risk of severe psychological disorders which aligns with the historical safety profile observed with psilocybin.”

The paper calls for further investigation into how these acute adverse effects can be better managed and a more detailed study on the potential long-term risks. 

“Our findings support the continued exploration of psilocybin as a treatment for mood disorders, but underscore the necessity of careful monitoring and further research,” the study says.

This research could be an important step in understanding the viability of psilocybin as a mainstream treatment option. 

The full study is accessible here.