Muscimol

What is muscimol?

Muscimol is a constituent of the fly agaric mushroom (Amanita muscaria). Chemically, muscimol belongs to the isoxazoles. Pharmacologically, it is classified as a GABA-A receptor agonist. Muscimol is not chemically related to psilocybin or other classic psychedelics.

Important note: This guide is intended for factual information. Muscimol is a substance with considerable risks and is not recommended for consumption. Nothing on this page should be understood as a recommendation to consume it. If you suspect poisoning: call 112 or a poison control centre.

Muscimol vs. ibotenic acid

The fly agaric contains two central constituents:

• Ibotenic acid: precursor of muscimol, considered neurotoxic and associated with many undesirable adverse reactions
• Muscimol: formed through decarboxylation of ibotenic acid (drying, heating, digestion) and the most studied constituent of the mushroom in research

The ratio of ibotenic acid to muscimol varies greatly depending on the mushroom, origin, season and processing.

Pharmacological classification

Muscimol is a GABA-A agonist. This means that it binds to receptors that are normally activated by the neurotransmitter GABA. Psilocybin, by contrast, binds to serotonin receptors (5-HT2A). Muscimol therefore belongs to a separate pharmacological group of substances. We make no statements about effects or dosage.

Muscimol gummies

Since 2023, muscimol gummies have been offered in the USA and increasingly in Europe as well. According to manufacturers, these products contain standardised muscimol extracts, which are usually obtained from dried Amanita muscaria mushrooms. In Germany: muscimol is listed neither in the BtMG nor in the NpSG annex (as of 2026). The legal situation may change.

Risks

• Variable concentration of constituents between mushrooms and batches
• Narrow safety margin: small differences in quantity can significantly increase the risk of poisoning
• Ibotenic acid toxicity in insufficiently processed material
• Possible symptoms of poisoning (dizziness, confusion, hallucinations)
• No clinical data on long-term consequences

Legal situation in Germany

Muscimol itself is not explicitly prohibited in Germany (as of May 2026). It is listed neither in the BtMG nor in the NpSG annex. Dried Amanita muscaria mushrooms and extracts are currently not prohibited. However, not prohibited does not mean harmless. The situation may change through legislation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the legal situation of muscimol in Germany?

Muscimol is currently not prohibited (as of 2026). It is listed neither in the BtMG nor in the NpSG annex. The legal situation may change.

What is the difference between muscimol and psilocybin?

Fundamentally: psilocybin binds to serotonin receptors (5-HT2A), muscimol to GABA receptors. Psilocybin is listed in the BtMG in Germany and is therefore prohibited. Muscimol is not listed there.

Is muscimol safe?

No. "Not prohibited" does not mean "safe". Muscimol has a considerable risk profile, particularly due to the ibotenic acid in the source material and the concentration, which is difficult to control. Muscimol is not recommended for consumption.

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