Federal agencies advance psychedelic therapy post-Trump order

Federal agencies are moving forward with psychedelic therapy initiatives following an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump in spring 2026. The order aims to accelerate research and regulatory processes for psychedelic substances, including ibogaine, which remain classified as Schedule I drugs under federal law.

Trump’s Executive Order on Psychedelic Therapy

The executive order, signed by Trump, allocated a minimum of $50 million in federal funding to support state programs focused on psychedelic medicine for severe mental illnesses. According to the source, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is tasked with issuing national priority vouchers for psychedelic drugs that have received Breakthrough Therapy designations. This initiative could significantly reduce the drug approval process from months to weeks. The order also mandates the FDA and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to create pathways for patient access to psychedelic drugs under the Right to Try Act.

Federal Agencies Collaborate on Research

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively participating in 20 clinical trials related to psychedelic therapies for mental health, supported by over $23 million in external funding. These trials include research on MDMA for PTSD and psilocybin for depression. The VA and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance collaboration on psychedelic trials and mental health care for veterans. This partnership will focus on data collection, clinical efficacy, and safety, with findings shared with the FDA to expedite treatment approvals.

FDA Issues Vouchers for Psychedelic Studies

The FDA has granted national priority vouchers to companies like Compass Pathways and the Usona Institute to conduct studies on psilocybin for depressive disorders. Otsuka Pharmaceutical has received a voucher for researching methylone, an MDMA relative, for PTSD treatment. Additionally, an ibogaine-based study has been approved to begin phase 1 clinical trials in the U.S. for alcohol use disorder.

Why It Matters

This executive order represents a significant shift in federal policy towards psychedelic research, potentially paving the way for new treatments for mental health conditions. By reducing regulatory barriers and fostering collaboration among federal agencies, the initiative could accelerate the availability of psychedelic therapies for patients in need. However, the politicization of psychedelic research raises concerns about the credibility and integrity of scientific findings in this field.

The collaboration between federal agencies and the allocation of substantial funding underscore the growing interest in psychedelic therapies as potential solutions for mental health challenges.