Trump Signs Executive Order Speeding Up Research On Using Psychedelics For Mental Health
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday allowing expedited review of psychedelic drugs that can be used for medical purposes, including for mental health conditions.
The executive order, “Accelerating Medical Treatment for Serious Mental Illness,” aims to reduce the “burden of suicide and rates of serious mental illness in America” by authorizing research and use of psychedelics, including Schedule I ibogaine, in specific cases. The order also notes that suicide rates in the country have increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic and under the Biden administration.
“Today’s order will ensure that people suffering from debilitating symptoms finally have a chance to get their lives back on track and lead happier lives,” Trump told reporters at the signing.
Popular podcaster Joe Rogan, who previously touted the use of ivermectin as a COVID treatment, and former Navy SEAL Marcis Luttrell joined Trump and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the signing ceremony.
.@joerogan says he sent @POTUS information about the extraordinary effects of ibogaine on veterans with traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress: “The text message came back: ‘This looks great! Do you want FDA approval? Let’s do it!’ It was literally that fast. https://t.co/Yw1NEAvmvz pic.twitter.com/Km3FITfE4p
– Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 18, 2026
“In 2024, over 80,000 people will have died from overdoses, that’s a horrible number,” Rogan said at the ceremony. “And there are currently more than 5 million people addicted to opioids in this country. With one dose of ibogaine, more than 80 percent of people are free of that addiction. With two doses, it’s more than 90 percent.”
The order directs HHS to work with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the private sector to “increase clinical trial participation, data sharing, and real-world evidence” regarding the use of psychedelics. (RELATED: Trump Admin Declares War on Microplastics in Drinking Water)
Section 2 of the order authorizes the Food and Drug Administration to extend “right to try” provisions to psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine compounds, for those who are eligible and have certain diagnoses.
“Psychedelic medications, including ibogaine compounds, show in clinical studies their potential to treat serious mental illness in patients whose condition persists after completing standard treatment,” the order reads in part. “Indeed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted breakthrough therapy designation to specific psychedelic medications, and many products are currently undergoing clinical trials for review of their safety and effectiveness.”
The move comes as health care costs continue to skyrocket, prompting Americans to cut spending so they can afford market-backed plans. Analysts also warn that rising health care costs could lead to problems for enrollees, including fewer plan options and fewer benefits.
All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent, nonpartisan news service, is available free to any legitimate news publisher capable of delivering a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and DCNF affiliation. For questions about our guidelines or our partnership, please contact licenses@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
