Trump Signs Order to Fast-Track Psychedelics for PTSD, Mental Health

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on April 18, 2026, signed an executive order in the Oval Office to expedite federal research into psychedelics as treatments for serious mental illnesses, particularly targeting post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans. The order directs the Food and Drug Administration to prioritize review of breakthrough-designated psychedelics including psilocybin, LSD, MDMA and ibogaine compounds, while instructing the Drug Enforcement Administration to ease research restrictions. Joining Trump were podcaster Joe Rogan, National Institute on Drug Abuse Director Nora Volkow and veterans advocating for the therapies after Oval Office discussions on mental health benefits.[1][2][3] The initiative allocates $50 million from the Department of Health and Human Services to match state investments in psychedelic programs, inspired in part by Texas' recent law mandating publicly funded ibogaine research. It also establishes pathways under the Right to Try Act for eligible patients to access investigational drugs meeting basic safety standards, building on precedents like the MAPS Public Benefit Corporation's MDMA expanded access program. Trump stated rescheduling of approved drugs would proceed 'very quickly,' emphasizing collaboration among DOJ, HHS, VA and FDA for timely market readiness.[2][3][4] Proponents, including Rep. Dan Crenshaw and the Special Operations Association of America, called the order a 'monumental victory' for veterans facing high suicide rates unresponsive to conventional treatments. Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel endorsed the push, noting psychedelics modulate serotonin and dopamine to reduce fear and shift perceptions positively in severe depression and PTSD cases. White House statements highlight psychedelics' promise for alcoholism, drug addiction and Alzheimer's alongside mental health.[1][4] Growing clinical evidence supports the therapies: studies show potential for hard-to-treat conditions like opioid addiction and treatment-resistant depression. However, NIDA Director Volkow cautioned in 2024 against ibogaine approval due to cardiac risks, though the order may enable first U.S. human trials. Companies developing these drugs affirmed commitment to rigorous data for FDA approval, unaffected by the regulatory fast-track.[2][3]