CHEMICAL AND TOXICOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF AMANITA MUSCARIA MUSHROOM POISONS AND PROSPECTS FOR MEDICAL USE: A REVIEW OF CURRENT DATA
Sudovo-medična ekspertiza May 29, 2026 Valentyna Bevzo, Mykola Turash
Amanita muscaria, the red fly agaric, contains isoxazole alkaloids such as ibotenic acid, muscimol, and muskazone. This systematic review of current literature describes the mushroom's chemical composition, toxicodynamics, and potential pharmacological applications. Experimental studies indicate that extracts show cytotoxicity, affect neuronal networks, and possess anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective properties. Muscimol and related metabolites are considered promising bases for neuropharmacological agents in neurology, psychiatry, gerontology, and oncopharmacology. However, clinical use requires standardization, development of safer analogues, and rigorous toxicological control due to the compounds' inherent toxicity.