Austrian Man Severely Injures Himself with Axe After Psilocybin Use

A 37-year-old Austrian man with a history of depression and alcohol abuse amputated his own penis with an axe after consuming four to five psilocybin mushrooms, marking the first documented case of such an incident. Following the self-inflicted injury, he wandered through the snow seeking help and was admitted to the hospital in critical condition, where doctors successfully reattached the severed organ despite complications such as necrosis. Psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, alters serotonin receptors, leading to hallucinations and changes in perception, and while it shows promise in treating mental health conditions, this extreme case highlights its potential dangers when used irresponsibly. Researchers have noted that psilocybin can disrupt normal brain communication, and while it has therapeutic effects, the risks remain significant, especially in uncontrolled environments. The incident underscores the need for careful supervision in psilocybin research and treatment, particularly for individuals with pre-existing mental health issues. The report detailing this case was published in the Mega Journal of Surgery and has sparked discussions about the safe use of psychedelics in medical settings.