Trump orders fast tracking review of psychedelics for mental health disorders
8 hours ago
- #Mental Health
- #FDA
- #Psychedelics
- President Trump signed an executive order to increase availability of psychedelic drugs for mental health treatment, including depression and anxiety.
- $50 million in federal funds was directed to improve access, and the FDA was ordered to fast-track reviews of psilocybin and ibogaine.
- The FDA will issue national priority vouchers to three psychedelics, aiming for approval within weeks—the first fast-tracking of such drugs by the agency.
- Trump highlighted the national mental health crisis, noting over 14 million U.S. adults have a serious mental illness, with about 8 million on prescription medication.
- Psychedelics were touted for success in treating PTSD among military personnel and veterans, with the VA involved in trials across multiple states.
- Research on psychedelics, which paused in the 1960s, has resumed, with studies like a 2025 JAMA report showing LSD's long-term benefits for anxiety and depression.
- Psilocybin and ibogaine are currently Schedule I drugs, but Trump's order aims to expedite reclassification and expects quick FDA approval.