Trump speeds review of psychedelics after Joe Rogan texted him about ibogaine. 'Sounds great. Do you want FDA approval? Let's do it'
Donald Trump,FDA,Joe Rogan,Robert F Kennedy Jr,Health,Public Health,Drugs,Psychedelics,Executive Orders
President Donald Trump on Saturday directed his administration to speed up reviews of certain psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine, which recently has been embraced by combat veterans and conservative lawmakers despite having serious safety risks.
Ibogaine and other psychedelics remain banned under the federal government's most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk drugs. But the administration is taking steps to ease restrictions and spur research on using the drugs for medical purposes, including conditions like severe depression.
"Today's order will ensure that people suffering from debilitating symptoms might finally have a chance to reclaim their lives and lead a happier life," Trump said as he signed an executive order on the drugs. The Republican president said his directive will help "dramatically accelerate" access to potential treatments. "If these turn out to be as good as people are saying, it's going to have a tremendous impact," he said.
Related Coverage
AllSides Picks
Recommended Reading
When AOC Takes a Step Back—and Possibly Forward
Dan Schnur
August 24th, 2026
News
Tracking Trump’s Campaign Promises
AllSides Staff
August 13th, 2026
Headline Roundup
Trump's Plan to Import Beef Sparks Republican Pushback, Conspiracy Theories
August 25th, 2026
Headline Roundup
Americans Mourn the Death of Country Music Icon Dolly Parton
August 25th, 2026