Mushroom drops contain a synthetic compound related to psilocin — the substance naturally found in magic mushrooms and truffles. The best-known variant is 4-HO-MET, and more recently The Drops introduced a new line containing 4-PrO-MET. Across Europe, countries apply different approaches to new compounds and research chemicals. In this blog, we take a broad look at how this works for 4-HO-MET and 4-PrO-MET.
A practical guide to 4-HO-MET and 4-PrO-MET legality
Important to know:
- Rules and regulations differ between countries and may change over time
- The information below is meant as a general explanation
- Always check how your own country handles this topic
How does legislation around new substances work in Europe?
Anyone researching the legal status of mushroom drops will quickly notice that there is no unified European system. Each country makes its own decisions and evaluates “new substances” in its own way. Generally, you’ll see that countries use one or more of the following approaches:
- Lists of banned substances
Some countries follow fixed lists. Only substances explicitly mentioned fall under a ban. - Group or family approaches
Some countries take a broader approach. Instead of banning individual substances, they regulate entire ‘families’ of chemically related compounds under one rule. New variants then fall automatically into the same category. - Analog or broad definitions
Other countries use wide definitions: if substance A closely resembles substance B (for example in structure or characteristics), and substance B is banned, then substance A may fall under the same rules — even if its name is not explicitly listed.
Because countries handle new substances so differently, a grey area often emerges. A compound not specifically mentioned is therefore not automatically free of restrictions. In practice, this is evaluated differently per country and sometimes even per situation.
What about 4-HO-MET?
Our original mushroom drops contain 4-HO-MET in liquid form and are offered as a research chemical.
The Netherlands
In the Netherlands, 4-HO-MET is currently not listed on the official schedules. Tryptamines also do not fall under the recently introduced group legislation — for now. As a result, 4-HO-MET is generally viewed as a research chemical that may be sold for research purposes. Regulations may change in the future, so developments are monitored closely.
Countries where 4-HO-MET is not explicitly listed
Several European countries do not clearly list 4-HO-MET in their official schedules. This does not automatically mean full freedom, because some nations apply broader definitions that may still restrict new substances. Below is a list of countries where the compound is not literally named as illegal:
- Bulgaria
- France
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- The Netherlands
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Spain
Again: countries handle new compounds differently, so always check local information.
And what about 4-PrO-MET?
That brings us to 4-PrO-MET, the compound used in our new line of mushroom drops. This substance is very closely related to 4-HO-MET — which is why the resulting experience is practically the same as with the classic mushroom drops.
Precisely because its structure differs slightly, 4-PrO-MET currently does not fall under the same legal category as 4-HO-MET in many countries. This is good news for our users in the following countries, where 4-PrO-MET can be ordered as a research chemical:
- Belgium
- Denmark
- Germany*
- Estonia
- Finland
- Italy
- Poland
- Portugal
- Czech Republic
- Sweden
*In Germany, 4-HO-MET falls under the legislation on new psychoactive substances. 4-PrO-MET is not always included in this framework, which is why some suppliers offer it as a research product.
As with other new compounds, interpretations vary per country. The fact that a substance is not explicitly prohibited does not mean it is automatically unrestricted or freely importable. Countries assess these situations individually.
In summary…
We keep an eye on recent developments, but ultimately it is the reader’s responsibility to stay up to date. Always be aware of your country’s legislation — even when a substance does not yet appear to be explicitly prohibited.
Want to stay informed about new developments? Check out our guides and blogs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mushroom drops legal in the Netherlands?
4-HO-MET and 4-PrO-MET are currently not specifically listed in the Netherlands and are sold as research chemicals.
Can I take mushroom drops with me when travelling in Europe?
This is generally discouraged, as countries handle this differently and border controls follow their own criteria.
What happens if the law changes after I place an order?
If regulations change during shipping, packages may be held or stopped. This depends on the country and the situation.
Is 4-PrO-MET “safer” legally than 4-HO-MET?
In some countries, 4-PrO-MET appears to fall less clearly within existing lists. However, due to varying national systems, this offers no guarantees.
How do I know if a webshop follows the rules?
Look for clear research disclaimers, transparent product information, contact details, and proper privacy and shipping policies. A reliable shop does not sell products for consumption and communicates clearly about relevant legislation.
