Recommendations of the Editorial team
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday (April 18) that… Research into psychedelics for the treatment of mental illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
The podcaster was personally present at the signing in the White House. The order aims to force the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to fast-track its review of psychedelics like ibogaine as part of a treatment approach for war veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, Reuters reports.
“Today’s order will ensure that people suffering from debilitating symptoms finally have the chance to reclaim their lives and live happier lives,” Trump said.
Illegal substances reassessed
The research could pave the way for previously illegal psychedelics to be reclassified if the studies are successful. “I’ve heard a little bit about it in the last year,” Trump added, referring to the use of psychedelics in PTSD treatment. “I had never heard of it before. It was almost like a taboo. It isn’t anymore.”
Saturday’s decree followed a text message Rogan sent to the president promoting psychedelics. “I sent him this information. The response that came back: ‘Sounds good. Do you want FDA approval? Let’s do it.’ Literally so fast,” Rogan said in the Oval Office.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has also advocated for the use of ibogaine to treat PTSD symptoms such as depression. According to the Pentagon’s annual suicide report, a total of 471 US soldiers died by suicide in 2024, and another 1,500 attempted suicide.
FDA promises approval in weeks
FDA Commissioner Martin Makary said: “Under this new program in this administration, drugs can be approved in weeks – not a year or more, but in weeks – if they align with our national priorities. This is an unmet public health need, and there are potentially promising treatments. That’s why there’s a sense of urgency here. That’s why we’re acting now.”
