Anxiety & Depression · Texas behavioral health news
The Long, Strange Trip of Rick Perry - The New York Times
Anxiety & Depression (Google News) · August 12, 2025
In plain language
Former Texas Governor Rick Perry has become a leading advocate for ibogaine, a powerful plant-based compound used to treat brain trauma, addiction, and cognitive decline. After undergoing treatment himself in Mexico, Perry reported feeling clearheaded and calm, with follow-up scans showing significant improvements in his brain health. Alongside other leaders, he is now pushing for clinical research and public funding to help military veterans access this therapy. While supporters call it a miracle for mental health, experts warn that it carries serious heart risks and remains illegal in the United States.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Texas became the first state to provide public funding for clinical research into ibogaine treatment for veterans.
- Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound from a Central African shrub used to treat addiction and PTSD.
- The drug can cause dangerous heart rhythm changes and requires strict medical monitoring during use.
- Former Governor Rick Perry co-founded a nonprofit to support ibogaine research for brain injuries and substance abuse.
- Ibogaine remains a Schedule I illegal substance in the U.S. despite growing interest from some policymakers.
The Long, Strange Trip of Rick Perry The New York Times
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