Psilocybin mushrooms, similar to LSD in their function as a serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist, are a traditional type of psychedelic. These mushrooms are currently under investigation in psilocybin-assisted therapies to treat mental health conditions like major depression, anxiety, cluster headaches, and migraines, all of which are linked with emotional distress.
In order to understand how shrooms can help with these conditions, it is important to examine how they are metabolized in the body. This knowledge enables both researchers and users to understand how the active compound produces psychological and therapeutic effects. This article offers a basic understanding of the pharmacology and pharmacokinetics of psilocybin.
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Key Takeaways:
- Half of the psychedelic fungi consumed orally are absorbed and circulated throughout the body.
- The fungi compound is dephosphorylated by the enzyme alkaline phosphatase, primarily in the liver.
- About 3.4% of the compound is expelled in its initial form within 24 hours, while the majority is excreted as a stable metabolite.
What is Pharmacokinetics?
Pharmacokinetics (PK) is a scientific field that studies how substances, like drugs, are processed by the body after they are ingested. Although related, it is different from pharmacodynamics, which studies how a compound interacts with the body. PK primarily focuses on four aspects: absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME).
Understanding these processes helps healthcare professionals prescribe the most effective medications with the least amount of risk. It also allows them to customize treatments based on the unique physiology and lifestyle of each patient.
How Does Pharmacokinetics Relate to Psilocybin?
Psilocybin and psilocin, the primary active compounds found in certain species of magic mushrooms, have sparked significant interest among researchers and users. Pharmacokinetics studies how the body processes mushrooms containing psilocybin, aiding in understanding their potential medicinal or recreational effects.
These compounds, also known as “magic,” “psychedelic,” “medicinal,” or “sacred,” are found in fungi that are ingested. The Varieties of mushrooms, their native locations, sizes, the environmental conditions in which they mature and are dehydrated, and their age can significantly influence their concentration levels.
These mushrooms are naturally found in the wild, but they can also be artificially synthesized in laboratories by scientists. Both natural and synthetic versions display minimal toxicity, although minor side effects such as nausea or vomiting may be experienced.
Despite these physical symptoms, the compounds within these mushrooms can potentially offer therapeutic benefits due to their safe profile and non-addictive properties. Consequently, these advantages have sparked interest in researchers to explore their application in psychotherapy, particularly for treating anxiety and depression.
The 4 Phases of Pharmacokinetics
Psilocybin, the compound present in these mushrooms, is initially inactive and acts as a prodrug, converting into its active form, psilocin. Enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase facilitate this transformation, allowing psilocin to be absorbed and distributed throughout the body, reaching various tissues. However, after being orally administered, psilocybin cannot be traced in the circulatory system, feces, or urine.
Absorption
Absorption refers to the process through which the compound moves into the bloodstream from its administration point. It determines the rate and effectiveness at which the compound reaches its target, such as the plasma. The oral method is the most commonly employed for administration. Inhalation has been tried but has proven to be less effective than oral intake.
The absorption process also entails the liberation of the compound from the dosage form during oral ingestion. Factors like a delay in the throat or esophagus can affect this, potentially decelerating results or causing irritation. Once the compound arrives in the stomach, the acidic atmosphere may start to degrade it before it enters the bloodstream.
Studies performed on animals suggest that only about 50% of orally administered psychedelics are absorbed and distributed throughout the body.
Factors Impacting the Absorption Process
Several elements can influence the absorption process, leading to variations in the onset, intensity, and duration:
- Stomach Contents: The presence of food in the stomach can postpone the procedure as it decelerates the commencement of effects. An empty stomach facilitates quicker absorption.
- Body Fat: Substances may accumulate in fat tissues, potentially prolonging their effects.
- Age: Metabolic rates and body composition are often subject to changes with age.
- Zero-Order Kinetics: The substance is eliminated at a constant rate, regardless of its concentration.
- First-Order Kinetics: The elimination rate is directly proportional to the concentration of the drug.
Dissemination refers to the process where psilocin, once in the bloodstream, is spread throughout the body. As a lipophilic compound, psilocin can traverse the blood-brain barrier and reach the central nervous system.
This process is influenced by numerous factors, including the size, polarity, and protein-binding capability of the compound, as well as individual physiological factors like hydration status and body composition.
The goal is to achieve an effective concentration at the targeted location. To be effective, the compound must reach the intended area as dictated by the volume of distribution, and remain free from protein binding, allowing active interaction with its receptor.
What Factors Affect the Dissemination Process?
Several factors can affect the dissemination process:
Typically, effects begin to manifest around 20-40 minutes after ingestion, peaking at approximately 80-100 minutes. The effects of magic mushrooms typically last between 4-6 hours.
How Does Dissemination to the Brain Take Place?
Initial experimental research on two species showed that the binding affinity sequence is 5HT2A > 5HT1A > 5HT2B [23]. It also binds to receptors of dopamine D1, 5HT1E, 5HT5A, 5HT7, 5HT6, D3, 5HT2C, and 5HT1B.
It acts as a partial agonist at the 5HT2A receptor, with an approximate efficacy of 40%. The psychedelic effects can be attributed to its partial agonist activity at 5HT1A autoreceptors.
The enhancement of mood and psychotomimetic experiences may be linked to the observed correlation between increased dopamine levels and feelings of depersonalization and euphoria. Hallucinogens work by modifying neurochemistry and receptor activity. They boost 5HT2A agonist activity by enhancing BDNF synthesis in the hippocampus, which promotes neurogenesis and reduces conditioned fear-related behaviours.
Elimination
Elimination refers to the process by which the
The human body expels substances primarily through the kidneys, but also through the lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. In the case of the kidneys, substances such as naturally occurring psychedelic drugs are filtered in the glomerulus or secreted in the tubules. The process is further complicated by some degree of reabsorption.
The primary compound has a half-life of roughly 160 minutes, while the half-life of psilocin is about 50 minutes. Animal studies suggest that the majority of the substance is excreted in the urine, accounting for approximately 65% within 8 hours of ingestion. Traces of the substance can also be detected in smaller amounts in bile and feces.
In humans, about 3.4% of the ingested substance is excreted in its original form within 24 hours. The majority is eliminated as psilocin-O-glucuronide, a metabolite with greater stability. This stability allows the substance to be detectable in urine samples over a longer period.
The body generally relies on two primary methods to expel substances:
Most psychedelic drugs follow the first-order kinetics method, reaching stable concentrations after approximately four to five half-lives. Complete elimination also typically occurs after four to five half-lives.
Discover Our Range of Hallucinogenic Mushrooms
The metabolic process can differ among various types of fungi. By purchasing from reliable online vendors like Fungalfriend Canada, you can avoid the risk of accidentally ingesting poisonous mushrooms. Certain kinds, such as Agaric mushrooms, can induce strong and potentially unpleasant effects. Hence, it is critical to source magic mushrooms from trustworthy dispensaries, rather than from uncertain street vendors or through wild foraging.
| Feature | Enigma | Full Moon Party | Gold Member | |
| Strain Type | Psilocybe Cubensis OMNI | Psilocybe cubensis (Thai Koh Samui) | Psilocybe cubensis | |
| Potency | Exceptionally high; 3.8% tryptamine content | Moderate to high potency | High potency | |
| Visual Characteristics | Resembles a blob or | Resembles a cauliflower or brain | Typically looks like a classic cubensis; moderately sized | Characterized by thick white stems, golden caramel caps, and noticeable blue bruising |
| Effects | Known to be highly potent; induces intense effects | Produces a strong mental high with delayed onset and distinct visuals | Results in potent visuals and a sense of euphoria |
Discover Psilocybin Mushroom Use Online
It is essential for medical professionals, researchers, and users to comprehend the pharmacokinetics of shrooms. This understanding aids in making informed decisions about dosage and timing, thereby reducing potential risks.
Discover your perfect psychedelic journey at Fungalfriend Canada. Whether you desire a serene experience or a deeper exploration, our wide variety of products is tailored to meet your specific requirements. Enjoy high-quality, safe, and regulated shrooms, eliminating worries about unknown sources or poisonous mushrooms.
Experience the best magic mushrooms Canada has to offer and take your psychedelic journey to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any documented interactions between shrooms and other medications?
Our products may interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting serotonin levels, such as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). SSRIs and SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) typically lessen the effects, unlike non-serotonergic antidepressants. This reduced effect can last up to three months after discontinuing the use of the antidepressant.
Do all psychedelics operate the same way as psilocybin?
No, each psychedelic compound has a unique structure that requires different metabolic processes to activate, and they latch onto various receptors in the body. The way each psychedelic is administered also affects its absorption. While the basic principles of absorption, metabolism, and distribution are the same, the specific pathways and effects vary for each substance.
Does the form of the shroom affect the pharmacokinetics?
Yes, the form (be it fresh, powdered, or dried mushrooms) can influence the absorption rate. For example, powdered forms might be absorbed faster than whole dried ones due to more rapid dissolution.
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