President Trump signs executive order on psychedelic drugs with Joe Rogan
Podcaster Joe Rogan accompanied President Trump in the Oval Office as he signed an executive order aimed at accelerating research into psychedelics.
Last weekend, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order accelerating research into psychedelics to treat veterans.
USA TODAY reported that Trump’s signing followed a call from podcast host Joe Rogan, who asked Trump to investigate how drugs help veterans battling suicide and depression.
But in Texas, the state legislature is already looking to invest in clinical trials of the hallucinogen, with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustrin Burrows announcing a $50 million state investment in research into the drug.
This led some to wonder what exactly ibogaine is and what President Trump’s executive order means for Texans.
What is ibogaine?
Ibogaine is derived from the roots of Tabernante iboga, a shrub native to Central Africa. And it’s illegal in the US.
However, when combined with magnesium, it can help reduce PTSD, anxiety, and depression, and improve function in veterans with traumatic brain injuries, according to Stanford Medicine.
What has Texas done to invest in ibogaine research?
On March 31, Texas leaders announced the creation of a $50 million clinical trial program after the Texas Health and Human Services Commission determined that no drug companies would be willing to help develop a drug for FDA approval.
Prior to this announcement, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 2308 and the governor signed it. The bill created a pathway for universities, hospitals, and drug developers to work together to conduct clinical trials of Ibogaine for FDA approval.
The bill also appropriated $50 million to support this effort.
How will President Trump’s ibogaine executive order affect Texans?
As reported by USA Today, the order directs the FDA to expedite research into psychedelics, including ibogaine, which can help treat severe mental illness and depression, while also setting a course to accelerate research into the drug.
The order also allocated $50 million for each state to research the drug.
With this additional incentive, it remains to be seen when clinical trials for ibogaine will begin in Texas.
Mateo Rosiles is a Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and local Texas newspapers. Do you have any news tips for him? Email him: mrosiles@usatodayco.com.
