President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday allowing expedited reviews of psychedelic drugs to be used for medical purposes, including mental health conditions.
The executive order, “Accelerating Medical Treatments For Serious Mental Illnesses,” seeks to address the “burden of suicide and serious mental illness rates in America” by allowing psychedelics, including the Schedule I-classified ibogaine, to be researched and used in specific cases. The order also notes the country’s suicide rates dramatically increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Biden administration.
“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,” Trump told reporters during the signing.
Famed podcaster Joe Rogan, who previously touted using Ivermectin as a treatment for COVID, 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 on the extraordinary effects of ibogaine on veterans with TBI and PTSD: “The text message came back, ‘Sounds great! Do you want FDA approval? Let’s do it!’ It was literally that quick.” https://t.co/Yw1NEAvmvz pic.twitter.com/Km3FITfE4p
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 18, 2026
Should the use of psychedelics for mental health be expedited for research and treatment?
“In 2024, more than 80,000 people died of overdoses, it’s a horrible number,” Rogan said at the ceremony. “And there’s more than 5 million people that are addicted to opioids right now in this country. With one dose of ibogaine, more than 80% of people are free of that addiction. With two doses, it’s more than 90%.”
The order directs HHS to collaborate 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.
Section 2 of the order allows 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 drugs, including ibogaine compounds, show potential in clinical studies to address serious mental illnesses for patients whose conditions persist after completing standard therapy,” the order reads in part. “Indeed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Breakthrough Therapy designation to specific psychedelic drugs, and there are numerous products currently in the clinical trial pipeline for review of safety and efficacy.”
The move comes as healthcare costs continue soaring, prompting Americans to reduce spending in order to afford marketplace-backed plans. Analysts also warn the rising costs of healthcare could cause issues for enrollees, including fewer plan options and fewer benefits.
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