FDA Fast-Tracks 3 Psychedelic Drug Reviews for Veterans as VA Sees 2.1 Million Potential Beneficiaries
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Oct 26
FDA Fast-Tracks 3 Psychedelic Drug Reviews for Veterans as VA Sees 2.1 Million Potential Beneficiaries
3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Oct 26
Summary
Three psychedelic drugmakers won FDA fast-track review after President Donald Trump’s April order to speed research, trials and patient access for veteran mental health treatments.
2.1 million veterans could benefit from therapies such as psilocybin or MDMA, a Veterans Health Administration adviser said, citing demand driven by PTSD, depression and high suicide rates among ex-service members.
The VA is already involved in 20 psychedelic clinical trials, but officials say capacity will lag demand; even in the first year after any approval, the system may treat only a four-digit number of patients.
Compass Pathways plans to complete its psilocybin application this quarter for treatment-resistant depression and expects a decision in the first half of 2027.
The push marks a sharp turn from 2024, when the FDA rejected MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, with Trump officials now backing approval if the drugs prove safe and effective.