The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) on Wednesday announced it will work with Australian medical technology companies to improve existing, and develop new, psychedelic products.
Australian researchers are currently testing whether methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or psilocybin, a compound that naturally occurs in some fungi species, can effectively treat mental health issues including depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which affect approximately one in five Australians.
"CSIRO is well-placed to contribute to this emerging area of research, which could lead to life-changing advancements in mental health," CSIRO scientist Peter Duggan said in a media release.
"Clinical trials both here and internationally have been using known psychedelics, usually MDMA or psilocybin with impressive results, but there's still much to be learnt about how these drugs work and how improvements to their chemical composition could enhance patient outcomes."
"By working with local industry to improve drug design and the patient experience, CSIRO can push Australia into a leadership position in the development of these potentially life-changing medications."
Both MDMA and psilocybin are currently listed as schedule nine prohibited substances in Australia, with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in December denying a request to downgrade them to schedule eight controlled drugs.
In its final decision the medical regulator acknowledged there was emerging evidence of both substance's therapeutic value but said concerns remained about misuse.
The CSIRO has been granted an extension of its scheduled poisons license so it can legally make the raw materials needed for its work.
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