New Zealand gives thumbs up to ‘magic mushrooms’ for depression treatment
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound once primarily known as a party drug, is increasingly being recognised for its medical potential
Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour said rules had been relaxed so psilocybin could be used to treat certain types of depression.
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in some species of mushroom that can cause hallucinations and an altered state of mind.
“Psilocybin remains an unapproved medicine, but a highly experienced psychiatrist has been granted authority to prescribe it to patients with treatment-resistant depression,” Seymour said.
“This is huge for people with depression who’ve tried everything else and are still suffering,” he said.
“If a doctor believes psilocybin can help, they should have the tools to try.”
If a doctor believes psilocybin can help, they should have the tools to try
There will be tight rules for prescribing the drug.