Trump fast-tracks psychedelic drug treatments for mental illness

President Donald Trump on Saturday directed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to accelerate review of certain psychedelic substances like ibogaine on a federal basis – in his executive order – that have already been designated as "breakthrough therapy" drugs.

Talking with reporters at the White House, Trump said, "The executive order I'm signing – we're actually signing the executive order today – is really a moment."

"These treatments are currently in the advanced stages of clinical trials to ensure that they're both safe and effective for the American patients."

He stressed the potential benefit of these psychedelic drugs like ibogaine for treating severe mental health conditions while citing the high suicide rate in military veterans.

"In many cases, these experimental treatments have shown life-changing potential for those suffering from severe mental illness and depression, including our cherished veterans."

Trump, in his speech, also said his executive order will do away with what he describes as unnecessary regulatory barriers in developing the emerging therapies.

"But, you know, usually with things like this, nothing ever happens, no matter how the research ends up, but we're changing that. This order will clear away unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, improve data sharing between the FDA and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and facilitate fast rescheduling of any psychedelic drugs that become FDA-approved."

'Ibogaine, remember the name'

Trump, particularly, pointed to ibogaine, a plant-based psychoactive compound, stating a study had been done previously which showed positive results for military veterans suffering from mental health illness.

"In 2024, a study from Stanford University, 30 special operation veterans with traumatic brain injuries underwent -- it's called ibogaine treatment -- ibogaine, remember the name," adding that they "experienced an 80 to 90% reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety within one month."

Citing the study, federal investment has been announced for ibogaine research, a total of $50 million, by the president.

"In Texas, Republican leaders have already committed $50 million to ibogaine research. And today, the federal government is making a $50 million research investment in its own. And so that was just approved just last night."

In addition, Trump also announced, "We're also opening a pathway for ibogaine to be administered to desperately ill patients under the right to try law."

"Today's order will ensure that people suffering from debilitating symptoms might finally have a chance to reclaim their lives and lead a happier life, just lead a happier life," the president concluded.

The latest statement by Trump points to interest in the current administration growing for alternative treatments for treating mental illness.