Trump Signs Executive Order Fast-Tracking FDA Review of Psychedelics for Mental Health

President Trump signed an executive order on April 19, 2026, directing $50 million in federal funds toward mental health treatment and ordering the FDA to fast-track its review of psychedelic drugs including psilocybin and ibogaine.

The order marks the first time the FDA has been directed to fast-track psychedelics. The agency is expected to issue national priority vouchers for three psychedelics, potentially leading to rapid approval within weeks.

Trump signed the order alongside podcaster Joe Rogan, who has been a vocal advocate for psychedelic-assisted therapy. The Department of Veterans Affairs is already participating in at least five clinical trials of these drugs for PTSD.

The executive order cited the national mental health crisis, noting that over 14 million American adults have a serious mental illness and about 8 million are on prescription medication. Suicide rates remain a central concern, with the order specifically referencing veteran suicide as a priority.

Psilocybin and ibogaine are currently classified as Schedule I drugs, meaning they have no accepted medical use under federal law. The order aims to expedite their reclassification.

A 2025 study cited in the order found that a single dose of LSD could ease anxiety and depression for months. Researchers at several universities have reported similar findings for psilocybin in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

Mental health advocates praised the order but cautioned that fast-tracking approval does not eliminate the need for rigorous safety testing. The FDA said it would begin reviewing applications under the new priority framework immediately.