President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the FDA to speed up the review of certain psychedelic drugs already labeled as “breakthrough therapy” treatments. The goal is to expand access to new mental health options, especially for military veterans dealing with PTSD, depression, and traumatic brain injuries.

Trump called the initiative a “moment” for medical innovation, arguing that federal delays have slowed access to promising treatments. The order emphasizes that several psychedelic therapies are already in advanced clinical trials and may offer meaningful improvements when used under medical supervision.

A major part of the policy focuses on improving coordination between the FDA and the Department of Veterans Affairs. This includes faster data sharing, more efficient review processes, and potential rescheduling of approved psychedelic substances to reduce regulatory barriers and support expanded medical research and treatment access.

Trump also cited research during his remarks: **“in 2024, a study from Stanford University, 30 special operation veterans with traumatic brain injuries underwent — it’s called ibogaine treatment — ibogaine, remember the name,”** noting that they **“experienced an 80 to 90% reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety within one month.”** He pointed to such findings as evidence of the potential impact of psychedelic-assisted therapies.

The order also opens pathways for certain treatments under “Right to Try” laws, allowing patients with severe or terminal conditions who have exhausted other options to access experimental therapies. Supporters say the move could accelerate innovation in mental health care and expand treatment possibilities for veterans and others with limited options.