President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday directing the FDA to accelerate its review of psychedelic drugs designated as breakthrough therapies, with a focus on treating veterans.
The order aims to speed the development of treatments for severe mental illness and depression among military veterans, a population facing elevated suicide rates. Trump said the directive would “implement historic reforms to dramatically accelerate access to new medical research and treatments based on psychedelic drugs.”
What the Order Does
The executive order directs the FDA to expedite reviews of psychedelics already labeled as breakthrough therapy drugs, according to Trump. It also calls for improved data sharing between the FDA and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The order establishes a pathway for ibogaine, a psychedelic compound, to be administered to severely ill patients under the right to try law. “This order will clear away unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles,” Trump said during the signing.
Federal investment in ibogaine research totals $50 million, matching a commitment already made by Texas Republican leaders. Trump cited a 2024 Stanford University study showing that 30 special operations veterans with traumatic brain injuries experienced an “80 to 90% reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety within one month” following ibogaine treatment.
The Administration’s Rationale
The White House framed the order as addressing a critical need within the veteran community. “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 stated.
The president noted that psychedelic research has been ongoing for some time but faced regulatory delays. “Usually with things like this, nothing ever happens, no matter how the research ends up, but we’re changing that,” he said.
What This Means
The order represents a shift in federal policy toward psychedelic-assisted therapies, which remain controlled substances under current law. Approval timelines for these treatments could accelerate significantly under the new directive.
The measure could expand treatment options for veterans struggling with service-related mental health conditions, though clinical trials for these therapies remain ongoing.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Medical and Politics teams contributed to this report.
