Trump signs order to speed review of psychedelics, including controversial drug ibogaine
The order specifically targets ibogaine, a banned substance showing promise for treating PTSD and opioid addiction.
President Donald Trump has taken a significant step toward expanding psychedelic medicine by signing an executive order to accelerate federal reviews of certain psychedelic substances. The directive specifically names ibogaine, a drug currently classified in the federal government's most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk substances. The order aims to "dramatically accelerate" access to research and potential treatments, with a stated focus on helping people, particularly veterans, suffering from debilitating symptoms reclaim their lives. This action follows pledges from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and aligns with rare bipartisan support for easing access to psychedelics for medical use.
The order is a direct response to advocacy from U.S. military veteran organizations and conservative lawmakers who have championed ibogaine's potential. These groups contend that ibogaine, derived from a West African shrub, shows great promise for treating notoriously difficult conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and opioid addiction, despite its known serious safety risks. President Trump stated that if these treatments prove effective, they could have a "tremendous impact." The administration's move signifies a major policy shift, seeking to expedite the review of drugs already designated as potential breakthroughs by federal regulators, potentially paving a faster regulatory pathway for psychedelic-assisted therapies.
- Executive order signed by President Trump to speed up federal review of psychedelic drugs like ibogaine.
- Focus is on treating veterans for conditions including PTSD and traumatic brain injuries.
- Ibogaine is currently a Schedule I banned substance but is advocated for by veteran groups.
Why It Matters
This could rapidly change treatment options for millions suffering from PTSD and addiction, starting with veterans.