President Trump has signed an executive order aimed at accelerating medical research and treatment access for psychedelic drugs. The order directs the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to expedite the review process for compounds such as ibogaine.
Federal officials stated the reforms could lead to the reclassification of these largely illegal, hallucinogenic drugs following successful clinical trials. The US will also dedicate $50 million to federal research into ibogaine, a substance derived from a central African shrub root.
Researchers have indicated ibogaine shows potential in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse issues, including opioid addiction.
Accompanying President Trump at the announcement were US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and podcaster Joe Rogan, both of whom have previously voiced support for exploring psychedelic therapies.