Overdose Information
What to know and what to do
Defining Overdose
What Does an Overdose of Psilocybin Look Like?
In traditional measures of acute toxicity, the safety profile of psilocybin is favorable. The median lethal dose (LD50) of psilocybin is 127,000 mcg per lb of body weight. Though psilocybin is far less toxic to the body than many other compounds, consuming more than intended may lead to discomfort and psychological distress during the duration of its effects.
In general, the Church defines an overdose as any dose that elicits effects in excess of one’s intended experience. There are two main indications of overdose that the Church has observed in its work.
Two Main Indications
Signs You’ve Taken Too Much
1. Memory Loss
The individual does not remember the experience. In this scenario, although some benefit may result, much of the benefit of having a profound spiritual experience is lost.
2. Loss of Bodily Control
The individual may lose control of their body and do things that they would otherwise consider unthinkable, behaviors such as the desire to run out in the street naked, for example.
The Importance of Memory
Preserving the Transformative Power
In both of these scenarios much of the transformative power of these spiritual experiences is lost. The ability to remember details from a religious experience on mushrooms is important. Recollecting moments of embarrassment over moments of profound spiritual insight is unfavorable and avoidable with careful attention to dosing.
“If you don’t remember it, why did you do it?”
Dave Hodges
Prevention
How to Avoid Taking Too Much
Careful attention to dosing is the most effective way to prevent an overdose. The Church of Ambrosia provides resources to help members approach their sacraments with precision and intention.
Start Low, Go Slow
Especially for those new to psilocybin sacraments, beginning with a lower dose and waiting to assess the full effects before consuming more is the safest approach. Effects may take 30 to 60 minutes to manifest fully.
Use the Dosage Calculator
The Church’s dosage calculator helps members determine an appropriate starting point based on body weight and experience level.
Know Your Source
Potency varies between species and even between individual mushrooms. Consistent, tested sacraments allow for more precise dosing. The Church’s safety and dose guides provide detailed information on potency by species.
Set and Setting Matter
A supportive environment and a calm mindset reduce the likelihood that an unexpectedly strong experience becomes distressing. Having a trusted sitter present is recommended, particularly at higher doses.
Need Help?
Crisis & Support Resources
Fireside Project: (623) 473-7433
Trained peer support for difficult psychedelic experiences. Free, confidential, available 24/7.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255
Free, confidential support for people in distress. Available 24/7.
Poison Control: (800) 222-1222
Call for guidance on any ingestion concern. Available 24/7.
Emergency: 911
Call immediately for any medical emergency, risk of harm to self or others, or if someone is unresponsive.
Continue Your Journey
Explore Safe Sacred Use
Learn about precision dosing to avoid overdose and maximize spiritual benefit.
