Australia has made history by becoming the first country to legalize psychedelics to treat certain mental health conditions, media reports.
Only approved psychiatrists can prescribe MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder and magic mushrooms for certain types of depression. While some scientists and mental health experts have praised the move, others feel it was too hasty and should not be overhyped.
There is still a risk of a "bad trip," which is an unpleasant experience under the influence of drugs. Additionally, the therapy is expensive, with Australian media reporting that one course could cost tens of thousands of dollars. Although clinical trials are also being conducted in the US, Canada, and Israel, Australia is the only country that regulates drugs as medications.
Under the new regulations, psychiatrists can prescribe MDMA for PTSD and psilocybin for depression that has not responded to other treatments. The psychedelics will be carefully monitored, and patients should not expect a miracle cure. More research is needed to determine the long-term outcomes of the therapy.
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