Washington [US], April 19: United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to speed up the review of a handful of psychedelic drugs, including the controversial ibogaine.
Trump was joined by podcaster Joe Rogan during Saturday's Oval Office event.
Rogan, considered one of the most influential podcasters in the country, has been a leading proponent of ibogaine, which is derived from a plant that grows in West Africa and has been embraced by some military veteran groups as a treatment for post-traumatic stress.
Speaking at the event, Rogan recounted how he had previously texted information to Trump about ibogaine.
He recalled that the president quickly texted back: "Sounds great. Do you want FDA [Food and Drug Administration] approval? Let's do it." Advocacy groups have long pushed for more research into the possible use of psychedelics to treat an array of issues, including depression.
"Today's order will ensure that people suffering from debilitating symptoms might finally have a chance to reclaim their lives and lead a happier life," Trump said at the signing.
"If these turn out to be as good as people are saying, it's going to have a tremendous impact." (Agencies)
Source: Qatar Tribune