On June 7, the FDA released a warning concerning Diamond Shruumz microdosing chocolate bars. The bars are marketed as offering a relaxed euphoric experience without the presence of traditional psychedelics like psilocybin. Consumers have experienced severe symptoms including seizures, nausea and central nervous system depression.
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Eight people across four states (Arizona, Indiana, Nevada, Pennsylvania) reported severe health issues after consuming Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars. Six individuals required hospitalization, with some experiencing critical conditions such as seizures and loss of consciousness.
Symptoms Experienced:
- Seizures
- Central nervous system depression (e.g., loss of consciousness, confusion, excessive sleepiness)
- Agitation
- Abnormal heart rates
- Hypertension and hypotension
Diamond Shruumz markets their chocolate bars as containing a proprietary blend of nootropic and functional mushrooms, explicitly stating they do not include psilocybin, amanita, or any scheduled drugs.
The chocolates are available in various flavors like birthday cake and cookies and cream, often sold online and in smoke shops.
The FDA in collaboration with the CDC, America’s Poison Centers and state/local partners is actively investigating these cases.
The primary focus is to determine the exact cause of the illnesses, given that Diamond Shruumz claims their products do not contain psychedelic substances.
Medical professionals including Dr. Steven Dudley from the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, suggest that an unidentified substance in the chocolate bars might be causing these effects.
Dr. Chris Hoyte from the Rocky Mountain Poison Center raised concerns about the lack of quality control and potential contamination in such products.
Diamond Shruumz claims that its chocolate bars contain a unique blend of natural ingredients that provide a similar experience to psilocybin without containing any actual psychedelics.
The company advertises the bars as microdoses, intended to enhance creativity and mental well-being. The company insists that no illegal substances are used in their products.
The company offers over a dozen different products with chocolate bars available in six different flavors.
Several cases involved seizure activity. Symptoms included loss of consciousness, confusion, and drowsiness.
Nausea and vomiting were commonly reported. All eight individuals who fell ill sought medical attention with six requiring hospitalization.
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The FDA, in cooperation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), America’s Poison Centers and local health authorities is actively investigating these incidents.
The agencies are working to identify the cause of the illnesses and are evaluating the necessary steps to prevent further occurrences.
The FDA has advised against consuming, selling or distributing Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars until the investigation is complete.
The FDA has also highlighted the risk these products pose to children and teenagers due to their candy-like appearance and has urged parents to keep these products out of reach of minors.
Microdosing involves taking very small amounts of a drug, typically psychedelics, to purportedly enhance productivity, creativity and overall mood without causing hallucinogenic effects.
The practice has gained traction in tech hubs like Silicon Valley, where some professionals integrate microdosing into their routines to boost mental performance.
The microdosing and psychedelic market have seen huge investment and interest.
The company promotes its products as safe alternatives to traditional psychedelics, addressing their non-psychedelic nature while promising a similar experience.
Their marketing strategy targets individuals seeking a mild, mood-enhancing experience without the legal and health risks associated with psychedelics.
The popularity of mushroom-based products especially those marketed for microdosing has surged. These products often lack regulatory oversight.
There is an increased risk of contamination and mislabeling, as many products are not independently tested to verify their contents.
Some experts, like Dr. Mason Marks, have highlighted the possibility of these chocolates containing substances like psilacetin (4-AcO-DMT), which produces effects similar to psilocybin but has not been studied for safety.
The FDA urges consumers to seek medical attention if they experience effects after consuming these products and to report such incidents to the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222).
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