Toronto, December 22nd, 2021 – Vivariant Laboratories Inc. – (the “Company” or “Vivariant”) is proud to announce it has submitted an application for a Licensed Dealer (LD) permit to possess and perform testing activities with psilocybin.

While currently controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions and, in Canada, under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), interest in the potential therapeutic uses of magic mushrooms is on the rise.

According to Health Canada, “There is ongoing research looking at the potential of psilocybin and psilocin to treat various mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and problematic substance use.” The government agency also stated that “clinical trials with psilocybin have shown promising results.” 

Under the CDSA, most activities with magic mushrooms such as sale, possession, and production, are illegal unless authorized by Health Canada. Such exemptions include Licensed Dealer permits for testing labs while individuals may access psilocybin and psilocin for therapeutic use through clinical trials, special access programs, and individual exemptions from the CDSA.

“Like Cannabis, people – particularly veterans and terminally ill patients – are working hard to convince lawmakers to reconsider the longstanding prohibitions of these drugs due to the emerging research and potential relief from mental afflictions such as PTSD.” Vivariant President & founder, Thomas Fraleigh said. “With Health Canada allowing exemptions for people to access therapies under supervision, there is a need for testing new products for accurate dosing and quality control. A Licensed Dealer permit would allow Vivariant to possess and conduct such activities with emerging psilocybin and derived products,” he continued, “I look forward to seeing the day when people can access these therapies without barrier and stigma.”

Established in 2017, Vivariant is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario and specializes in analytical chemistry and microbiology testing services for the Cannabis, Cosmetics, and Dietary Supplement/Natural Health Product industries. Vivariant is a GMP applicant which will allow the company to conduct testing on pharmaceutical drugs as well.