Washington, DC—The Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions condemns in the strongest possible terms President Trump’s executive order on ibogaine and other dangerous psychedelics. Because of this order, more Americans will die from these harmful drugs. The order will force the FDA to rush research on potentially life-threatening Schedule I drugs. Under this Administration’s fast-track voucher drug approval program, dangerous psychedelic drugs may approved for use within weeks. Further, the order will facilitate the first-ever human trials for psychedelic drugs in the United States.
“This order elevates politics and hype over sound science,” said FDPS CEO Kevin A. Sabet. “It implies that risky, unapproved hallucinogens can function as legitimate medical therapies. Ibogaine, for example, is still classified as a Schedule I substance and carries well-documented safety risks, including cardiotoxic effects and reported fatalities. The evidence for the supposed therapeutic benefits of these drugs is beyond weak; the research behind it is rife with conflict and industry connections. When the federal government lends its endorsement to any substance, that signal carries enormous weight. That power cannot and must not be used to legitimize unproven and potentially dangerous substances, particularly under the banner of helping those who have served our country. This move comes, sadly, in the wider context of a Trump administration that has already done much to normalize marijuana, hemp THC, and CBD. We strongly support rigorous, evidence-based research into new treatments, but this approach is dangerous and misguided and will put Americans at real risk.”
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