Psilocybin Use Surges, Poison Control Calls Increase

Psilocybin use in the United States has risen sharply since 2019, with recent studies estimating over 6 million more adults have tried it, particularly after decriminalization measures in Denver, Oregon, and Colorado. Lifetime adult use increased from 10% to over 12%, with significant rises among young adults, older adults, and those with mental health or chronic pain issues. Usage rates among adults now surpass those of cocaine, LSD, methamphetamine, and illicit opioids. The surge is attributed to changing public perceptions, expanded decriminalization, increased media coverage, and interest in potential therapeutic benefits, despite psilocybin not being FDA-approved. Unsupervised use has resulted in a dramatic rise in poison control calls, especially among adults and children, highlighting health risks outside clinical settings. Experts call for greater public education and research to address safety concerns as psilocybin use becomes more widespread.