In this episode of The Poison Lab, host Ryan Feldman is joined by medical toxicologist Damilola Idowu‑Ellsworth for a fast-moving, case-heavy conversation packed with clinical pearls, listener participation, and classic toxicology weirdness.

The show opens with listener guesses for the previously released mystery case before diving headfirst into a rapid-fire series of Stump the Toxicologist cases—questions pulled straight from the internet and real-world toxicology problem-solving. Along the way, Ryan and Dami cover everything from rodenticides and drug-testing myths to how to clean a benzodiazepine bottle, plus one of the most toxic substances you’ve probably never heard of.

One lucky listener also wins a copy of Poisonous Fungus Amongus, and a shout-out to the newly released second edition featuring photography from expert mycologists.

Skip the listener guesses and jump straight to the mystery toxin: 38:15

The rest of the episode is Dr. Idowu and Ryan discuss the topics below. Looking for timestamps? Join the supporting member feed!

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Case #1

1. A methemoglobinemia, renal failure inducing enema

Case #2

1. Wide-complex dysrhythmia from an over-the-counter topical
2. Bonus - Paper from Ryan on the topical toxicity (or lack there of) of this product

Case #3

1. Black stools, seizures, high sodium and low potassium after trying to beat a drug test.

Case #4

1. GCS 15 and normal vitals… until they’re not — delayed seizures, neurologic collapse, and a toxicologic time bomb.
2. Paper from Ryan on this tricky toxic time bomb

1. Do GLP-1 agonists release toxins from fat and how might that impact drugged driving laws with THC?
2. Why do sedatives make you twitch?
3. Not all benzos are Xanax
4. What shape is a ketamine crystal

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Hey everybody, you’re listening to The Poison Lab—well, almost.

We’ve got a new episode coming next week, but we’re running a little behind on our usual release schedule because… life happens. That said, if you’re looking for some toxicology content right now, I’ve got you covered.

Recently, I had the chance to appear on two local and state radio shows talking about one of my favorite topics: mushroom poisoning 🍄—and both were an absolute blast.

The first appearance was on Garden Talk, a fun, live call-in show where we covered:

1. Mushroom poisoning basics
2. Listener questions
3. My game GOTTA PICCEM
4. The book Poisonous Fungus Among Us

It was lively, unpredictable, and a great example of how curious people are about mushrooms once you open the door.

After that, I joined a local radio health update to talk specifically about mushroom poisoning from a public-health perspective. It’s always interesting to hear how radio hosts approach such a niche topic—and how quickly it turns into something broadly relevant.

If you’re itching for some Poison Lab content while you wait for the next full episode, these two appearances are a great place to start.

And don’t worry—we’ll be back next week with a full episode and answers to our mystery case.

Thanks, as always, for listening.

Hope to see you there.

— Ryan

Do you think you know the cause of these symptoms? Send your guesses to toxtalk1@gmail.com to take part in the next episode

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1. Ad free episodes
2. Bonus content and early access
3. Discounts and give aways on GOTA PICCEM Mushroom card game

The GOTTA PICCEM Poisonous Mushroom Game!

The Poisonus Fungus Amongus Children's Book!

1. Full book reading (6 minutes!)

Tox trinkets (Rep the show at home!)

1. Email: Toxtalk1@gmail.com

More Show Resources

1. Ryan's Medical Games and Resources
2. Show Website