"A significant step forward": medical use of hallucinogenic mushrooms authorized in New Zealand

New Zealand announced on Wednesday, June 18, that it has given the green light to the medical use of psilocybin, a compound naturally present in certain hallucinogenic mushrooms, in the hope of combating depression.
"Psilocybin remains an unapproved drug, but a highly experienced psychiatrist has been given permission to prescribe it to patients with treatment-resistant depression," Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour said in a statement.
"This is a huge step forward for people with depression who have tried everything and are still suffering," he said.
In addition to this specialist, only psychiatrists who have been involved in clinical trials on psilocybin will be able to prescribe this substance to their patients, according to a very strict protocol, it was specified.
Scientists are increasingly looking into the use of psychedelics to treat various conditions, such as depression.
In 2023, Australia had already authorized hallucinogenic mushrooms and ecstasy for medical purposes to combat certain mental illnesses.
BFM TV