Zur Pharmakologie von Psilocybin,einem Wirkstoff ausPsilocybe mexicana Heim

Summary The active principle ofPsilocybe mexicana Heim, Psilocybin, is without marked effects on the isolated organs (seminal vesicle, intestine and auricle of the guinea pig; rat uterus) but exerts an actionin vivo which resembles a slight sympathetic stimulation. In unanaesthetized rabbits it produces mydriasis, tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperthermia and hyperglycemia, in unanaesthetized mice mydriasis and piloerection. The EEG (curarized rabbits) after 1–2 mg/kg Psilocybin shows an alerting pattern (disappearance of spindle activity and of slow waves). Spinal reflexes of the cat are predominantly enhanced. However, the motor activity of mice, rabbits and monkeys is unaffected or even slightly depressed. In anaesthetized cats and dogs Psilocybin affects blood pressure and heart rate, the effect depending on dosage and species.