Getting a good night’s sleep—or finding new hope for tough-to-treat depression—might soon be easier for Kiwis.
The Government has taken steps to ease access to melatonin and medicinal psilocybin (a natural psychedelic found in mushrooms, known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms) by prescription in New Zealand, as part of its broader commitment to reducing regulatory barriers and improving treatment options for Kiwis.
Associate Health Minister David Seymour said the move is a response to public demand and aligns New Zealand with international standards. However, no date has been announced for when the changes will take effect.
“Many New Zealanders have asked me why people can buy melatonin overseas but they can’t buy it from their local pharmacy. Medsafe has assessed this and decided there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be available on pharmacy shelves right here at home,” said Mr Seymour.
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Melatonin, commonly used to treat insomnia and jet lag, has been heavily restricted in New Zealand. Until now, only a few melatonin products have been approved for those aged over 55.
“In time, adults will be able to buy melatonin directly from a pharmacy with no prescription needed. This is a commonsense decision that will make melatonin more accessible in New Zealand than in many other countries and encourage suppliers bring more products to our shelves,” he said.
Despite the relaxed regulations for adults, melatonin will remain prescription-only for children and adolescents. This decision follows expert clinical advice aimed at ensuring proper medical oversight for younger patients.
Seymour also announced a significant regulatory development regarding psilocybin, a compound currently being explored for its potential in treating mental health conditions.
“In another win for patients, Medsafe has also approved the prescription of medicinal psilocybin outside of clinical trials for the first time in New Zealand,” said Mr Seymour.
“Psilocybin remains an unapproved medicine, but a highly experienced psychiatrist has been granted authority to prescribe it to patients with treatment-resistant depression.
“This is huge for people with depression who’ve tried everything else and are still suffering. If a doctor believes psilocybin can help, they should have the tools to try,” he said.
According to Seymour, the psychiatrist in question has prior experience prescribing psilocybin in clinical trials and will be required to follow strict reporting and record-keeping procedures.
“New Zealand is now in line with Australia, where authorised prescribers have been using psilocybin in clinical settings for some time,” he said.
“Kiwis shouldn’t be left counting sheep or desperate for options when other countries are already using these medicines. The Government is committed to putting patients first.”
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