Local

Trump to sign executive order on psychedelic drug used abroad to treat PTSD

Trump President Donald Trump gestures after a roundtable event about no tax on tips, Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) (Alex Brandon/AP)

President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order to expand U.S. research into ibogaine, a psychedelic compound used to treat various conditions.

LISTEN TO ORLANDO’S MORNING NEWS EXPRESS PODCAST ON WDBO

The order aims to encourage federal study of the drug, particularly for veterans, without reclassifying it for medical use in the U.S.

Ibogaine remains a Schedule I substance under federal law, prompting U.S. residents to seek treatment abroad.

READ: Gary Woodland details PTSD struggles ahead of the Masters: ‘I thought people were trying to kill me’

Interest in ibogaine has also grown at the state level, with Texas supporting research into its potential for mental health conditions.

Ibogaine, derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant, has been used for centuries in spiritual ceremonies and is being explored for its therapeutic benefits.

Click here to download our free news, weather and traffic app. And click here to subscribe to our daily 3 Big Things newsletter.

Laurel Lee

Laurel Lee

Laurel Lee is a reporter for WDBO and produces various Ask the Expert shows on the weekend.