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Do Psychedelic Mushrooms Show Up in a Drug Test?

If you’re facing a drug screening, you might wonder: Do psychedelic mushrooms show up in a drug test?

Psychedelic mushrooms do not show up on standard 5, 8, 10, or 12-panel drug tests, but specialized tests can detect psilocybin in urine, saliva, or blood.

With decades of experience examining drug testing policies, I’ve seen how different substances are detected based on test type and timing. Below, we’ll explore how long psilocybin remains in the system, which tests can detect it, and what factors influence detection windows.

 

What Are Psychedelic Mushrooms and Key Concepts

Psychedelic mushrooms—also known as magic mushrooms—are fungi containing psilocybin and psilocin, two psychoactive compounds that can alter perception, mood, and cognition.

Key Terms to Understand

  • Psilocybin: A hallucinogenic compound metabolized into psilocin after ingestion.

  • Psilocin: The active chemical that affects the brain, causing hallucinations and altered states.

  • Drug panel test: A urine or blood test designed to detect specific substances.

  • Standard drug test: Usually a 5-panel or 10-panel test screening for common drugs like THC, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP.

Psilocybin is not part of most routine drug tests but may be detected through targeted testing in legal or employment situations.

 

A criminal defense lawyer researching urine drug tests, routine drug tests, and hair follicle tests for magic mushrooms or shrooms.

 

Do Standard Drug Tests Detect Psilocybin?

No, standard drug tests like 5-panel and 10-panel tests do not typically screen for psilocybin. These tests are designed to detect commonly abused substances such as:

  • Marijuana
  • Cocaine
  • Opiates
  • Amphetamines
  • PCP

Since psilocybin is not one of the substances included in these panels, it is unlikely to be detected during routine employment or pre-employment screenings.

 

What Types of Tests Can Detect Psychedelic Mushrooms?

Specialized drug tests, such as urine, blood, and hair tests, can detect psilocybin or its metabolite, psilocin. Detection times vary by test type, with urine tests detecting use for up to 48 hours, blood tests for a few hours, and hair tests for months.

Detection Methods for Psilocybin:

Test Type Detection Window Best For
Urine Tests Up to 24–48 hours Detecting recent use
Blood Tests A few hours after ingestion Immediate detection
Hair Tests Weeks to months after use Long-term detection in legal cases

 

  • Urine Tests: Detect psilocin (psilocybin’s metabolite) for 24–48 hours.
  • Blood Tests: Best for detecting psilocybin within hours of ingestion.
  • Hair Tests: Identify long-term use but are rare due to cost and specificity.

 

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Can Psychedelic Mushrooms Be Detected in Probation Drug Tests?

For individuals on probation, the scope of drug testing may differ significantly from standard employment or pre-employment screenings. Probation drug tests often include more comprehensive panels or specialized tests that can detect psilocybin. If a court mandates drug testing as part of probation terms, testing for hallucinogens may be included, depending on the nature of the offense or specific court orders.

Key Points About Probation Drug Testing:

  • Customized Panels: Courts can request testing for substances not typically included in standard panels, such as psilocybin.
  • Legal Consequences: A positive test for psilocybin during probation could result in penalties like extended probation, additional fines, or even incarceration.
  • Importance of Compliance: If you’re on probation, understanding the terms of your testing is crucial. Violations can lead to harsher consequences.

If you’re facing probation and have concerns about drug testing, consulting a legal expert is essential to understand your rights and obligations.

 

How Long Do Psychedelic Mushrooms Stay in Your System?

Psychedelic mushrooms stay in your system for 1–2 days in urine, up to 24 hours in blood, and up to 90 days or longer in hair. Detection times depend on factors such as test type, dosage, and individual metabolism.

Psilocybin Detection Times by Test Type:

Test Type Detection Window
Urine Test 1–2 days after use
Blood Test Up to 24 hours after use
Hair Test Up to 90 days or longer

Factors That Influence Detection:

  • Dosage and Frequency of Use: Higher doses and repeated use extend detection times.
  • Metabolism Rate: Faster metabolism reduces how long psilocybin remains detectable.
  • Hydration and Health: Staying hydrated and maintaining good health may affect detection.

 

A criminal defense lawyer discussing substance abuse and most routine drug tests to detect shrooms with serious legal consequences

 

What Are the Legal Implications of Testing Positive for Psilocybin?

Testing positive for psilocybin can lead to employment consequences, legal penalties, and limited opportunities for education or housing, depending on the context. Psilocybin is a controlled substance in Michigan, making its use or possession subject to fines, probation, or incarceration. Specialized industries may also impose strict penalties for positive drug tests.

Key Implications:

  • Employment: Job loss or disqualification, especially in regulated industries.
  • Legal Consequences: Fines, probation, or incarceration; may impact legal proceedings.
  • Education and Housing: Testing positive may limit opportunities during background checks.

 

The Role of Psilocybin Decriminalization in Drug Testing

In recent years, certain U.S. jurisdictions have moved toward decriminalizing or deprioritizing the enforcement of laws related to psychedelic substances like psilocybin. While this shift has gained traction in some states and cities, decriminalization does not prevent psilocybin from showing up on specialized drug tests or shield individuals from workplace or legal consequences.

Key Insights on Decriminalization and Testing:

  1. Limited Scope of Decriminalization: Decriminalization typically means reduced legal penalties for possession or use, not legalization. Employers and legal systems may still impose consequences for psilocybin use.
  2. Testing Policies Remain Unaffected: Even in areas with decriminalization, employers and courts retain the authority to test for psilocybin and act on positive results.
  3. State-by-State Variability: Laws and testing practices vary widely, so understanding the regulations in your area is essential.

Decriminalization efforts are an important step toward changing public perceptions, but they do not eliminate the risks of drug testing for psilocybin in many contexts.

 

Are Psychedelic Mushrooms Legal in Michigan?

No, psychedelic mushrooms are illegal in Michigan. They are classified as Schedule I substances, which means they are prohibited under both state and federal law. Penalties for possession or distribution include:

  • Misdemeanor charges: For small amounts, with potential fines and jail time.
  • Felony charges: For larger quantities or intent to distribute, carrying harsher penalties.
  • Always consult with an attorney if you are facing charges related to psilocybin.

 

An attorney discussing urine drug tests for magic mushrooms for a substance abuse type of drug test charge.

 

Drug Testing Options, Alternatives, and Detection Windows

Standard vs. Specialized Testing

Test Type Tests for Psilocybin? Detection Window Cost & Accessibility
5-Panel Urine Test ❌ No N/A Widely used, low cost
10-Panel Urine Test ❌ No N/A Slightly broader, still excludes
Blood Test (Extended) ✅ Yes (rare) Up to 24 hours More expensive, court-ordered
Hair Follicle Test ✅ Yes (rare) Up to 90 days Used in high-stakes cases
Custom Lab Analysis ✅ Yes (if requested) Varies Expensive, requires suspicion

Pros and Cons

  • Standard Tests

    • ✔️ Fast, affordable

    • ❌ Don’t detect psychedelics

  • Specialized Tests

    • ✔️ Can detect psilocybin

    • ❌ Rare, expensive, and often court-ordered

Michigan-Specific Laws and Legal Implications

Under Michigan Penal Code (MCL 333.7212), psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, meaning possession is a felony punishable by prison time.

Key Michigan Considerations

  • Possession of any amount is illegal and considered a felony.

  • Intent to distribute carries steeper penalties, including multi-year sentences.

  • Drug Court participants and probationers are subject to random drug testing—and extended panels may apply.

  • The Department of Corrections may use broader testing if warranted by behavior or tip-offs.

  • Michigan employers are allowed to conduct pre-employment or post-incident testing.

 

Common Drug Testing Questions Answered

What shows up on a 12-panel drug test?

A 12-panel urine drug test typically detects the following substances:

  • Marijuana (THC)

  • Cocaine

  • Opiates (codeine, morphine, heroin)

  • Amphetamines (methamphetamine, ecstasy)

  • Phencyclidine (PCP)

  • Benzodiazepines

  • Barbiturates

  • Methadone

  • Propoxyphene

  • Quaaludes

  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

  • Oxycodone

What cannot be detected in a urine test?

Urine tests do not typically detect:

  • Psilocybin (magic mushrooms) unless specifically tested

  • Inhalants (nitrous oxide, solvents)

  • Some synthetic drugs (e.g., certain cannabinoids or designer stimulants)

  • Most hallucinogens without expanded panels

What drugs can be detected in a urine test?

Standard urine drug panels test for:

  • 5-Panel: THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP

  • 10-Panel: Adds barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, propoxyphene, and Quaaludes

  • 12-Panel: Adds tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and oxycodone

What can show up positive on a drug test?

A drug test can show positive results for:

  • Illicit drugs like meth, heroin, or ecstasy

  • Prescription medications like Adderall or Xanax (if undisclosed)

  • Over-the-counter drugs that trigger false positives (e.g., antihistamines, decongestants)

  • Contaminants or foods (e.g., poppy seeds)

How Can You Protect Your Rights During a Drug Test?

You can protect your rights during a drug test by reviewing the testing policy, challenging unlawful testing, and consulting an attorney if necessary. Employers must follow legal procedures, and improperly conducted tests may be invalid. Knowing your rights ensures fair treatment and accurate results.

Key Steps to Protect Your Rights:

  • Review the Testing Policy: Understand what substances are tested and the procedures involved.
  • Challenge Unlawful Testing: Improperly conducted tests may be invalid, so confirm compliance with legal protocols.
  • Consult with an Attorney: If your rights are violated, seek legal advice to assess your options.

 

Contact DG Moore Law for Expert Legal Guidance

Facing drug-related legal issues can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At DG Moore Law, I provide personalized legal representation to help clients protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcomes. Whether you’re dealing with charges or concerns related to drug testing, I’m here to help.

Call 269-808-8007 or schedule a free no obligation consultation online today. Let’s work together to secure your future.

 

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FAQs About Psychedelic Mushrooms and Drug Testing

  • Do psychedelic mushrooms show up on a 5-panel drug test?
    No, 5-panel drug tests do not screen for psilocybin or psilocin, as these are not part of the standard panel substances.
  • How long do psychedelic mushrooms stay in your system?
    Psilocybin is detectable in urine for up to 48 hours, in blood for up to 24 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days.
  • Can an employer test specifically for psilocybin?
    Yes, employers can request specialized drug tests to detect psilocybin, but this is uncommon unless there is a specific reason.
  • Can you be fired for testing positive for psilocybin?
    Yes, if psilocybin use violates workplace policies, you can be terminated even if it is not part of a standard test.
  • Are there any legal defenses for testing positive for psilocybin?
    Legal defenses may include improper testing procedures or lack of probable cause. An attorney can help you navigate these issues.
  • What should you do if you test positive for psilocybin?
    Contact a legal professional immediately to understand your rights and explore potential defenses.

David G. Moore is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney in Michigan. With a Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and experience as a former assistant prosecutor, he brings unique insights to his practice. David’s career spans the entire spectrum of criminal defense, from minor infractions to complex felonies.

He has successfully handled cases in state and federal courts, including pre-indictment investigations, jury trials, and appeals. Licensed in Michigan and Arizona, David’s approach combines mitigation efforts with intense litigation preparation. His diverse legal experience has established him as a trusted and authoritative voice in Michigan’s legal community.

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