President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday, April 18, 2026 [1], to expedite the testing and review of psychedelic drugs for PTSD treatment.

The move signals a shift in federal drug policy by prioritizing the research of substances that have historically faced strict regulatory hurdles. By accelerating the review process, the administration aims to provide new therapeutic options for veterans struggling with mental health crises.

The order was signed in the Oval Office in Washington, D.C. [2]. It specifically directs the administration to speed up the review of certain psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine, to determine their efficacy in treating post-traumatic stress disorder [3].

Reports indicate the decision followed a text message from podcaster Joe Rogan [4]. Rogan was present in the Oval Office during the signing of the order [4]. While some reports emphasize the influence of this communication, other accounts focus on the administration's broader goal to support veteran health [3].

Ibogaine and similar psychedelics have been studied for their potential to treat addiction and trauma, though they often remain restricted under federal law. This executive action seeks to remove bureaucratic delays that have slowed the transition from clinical trials to approved medical use [3].

The administration has not specified the exact timeline for the FDA's expedited review process. However, the order establishes a mandate for federal agencies to prioritize these specific research tracks to benefit the veteran population [3].

“President Donald Trump signed an executive order to expedite the testing and review of psychedelic drugs”

This executive order represents a pivot toward a more permissive federal approach to psychedelic medicine. By targeting a specific population—veterans with PTSD—the administration can justify the acceleration of drug reviews under the umbrella of national security and veteran care, potentially creating a regulatory precedent for other psychedelic treatments in the future.