Drug-infused vape liquids marketed as “magic mushroom” products in Malaysia are largely mislabeled and instead contain synthetic drugs such as cannabinoids or MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy or molly), according to police and medical experts. While psilocybin mushrooms are classified as an illegal drug in Malaysia, they are at least naturally occurring. Monash University Malaysia addiction psychiatrist Dr. Anne Yee said most vape users—and even sellers—do not know what is actually contained in the products, commonly called Kpods.
Police data show that about 65% of vape liquids and devices seized in 2023 tested positive for synthetic cannabinoids or ecstasy, with no confirmed cases involving psilocybin, the hallucinogen found in real magic mushrooms. Authorities say the “magic mushroom” label is a marketing tactic rather than a reflection of the contents. The Narcotics Crime Investigation Department and Malaysia’s National Poison Centre have both confirmed that chemical analyses have found no mushroom-derived hallucinogens in seized samples, but instead detected new psychoactive substances that can cause hallucinatory effects. Experts warn that the unknown composition of these products poses serious health risks, as symptoms can range from dissociation and hallucinations to anxiety, psychosis, and impaired motor control.
Medical professionals stress that diagnosing affected users is challenging because patients are often unsure what they consumed. Yee said clinicians rely heavily on symptoms and patient accounts, noting that effects beyond nicotine indicate drug-laced products.
