Overview
Psyence BioMed, publicly traded under Nasdaq: PBM, develops nature-derived, pharmaceutical-grade ibogaine and psilocybin to address unmet mental health needs in areas such as addiction, trauma, and palliative care. By adhering to strict manufacturing and sourcing standards, Psyence aims to ensure the safety and efficacy of its treatments, particularly in light of the complex legal landscape governing psychedelic substances.
The focus on ibogaine not only connects to its potential in treating opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), but also in addressing co-occurring conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).[1]
History and Regulatory Context
Psyence BioMed's emergence comes amid a resurgence of interest in psychedelic compounds for therapeutic applications. The company recently hailed the Trump administration's executive orders to support psychedelic research, seeing it as an important milestone in gaining federal backing for ibogaine trials in the U.S.[2] This included directing the FDA to prioritize ibogaine for treatment of serious mental illnesses and facilitating the allocation of at least $50 million for research on psychedelics[3].
A historic piece of this support includes the University of Miami's provision of its original 1994 Investigational New Drug (IND) application for ibogaine to the federal government, which may lead to faster approvals for modern clinical trials[4]. This regulatory groundwork paved the way for Psyence to navigate the complexities of bringing ibogaine back into mainstream therapeutic dialogue.
Leadership
At the helm of Psyence BioMed is CEO Jody Aufrichtig, who has emphasized the need for structured, evidence-based research to elucidate the safety and efficacy of ibogaine[5].
Programs and Research Pipeline
Psyence BioMed has a pipeline focused on both ibogaine and psilocybin. The company's ibogaine programs are particularly aimed at addressing substance use disorders, including OUD and AUD, while also exploring areas related to trauma and PTSD[6].
Furthermore, Psyence is conducting research aimed at understanding the potential benefits of combining ibogaine with other treatments to enhance therapeutic outcomes. The focus is to create a comprehensive approach to mental health that integrates somatic therapies, behavioral health, and pharmacological interventions.
Partnerships and Supply Chain Agreements
Psyence works with PsyLabs, an ibogaine-focused company based in Africa, the native habitat of the iboga plant (Tabernanthe iboga). Under a global supply agreement, Psyence holds a right of first refusal to distribute PsyLabs' pharmaceutical-grade ibogaine[6].
Psyence also made a USD $500,000 follow-on investment in PsyLabs[6].
Regulatory and Clinical Activity
Psyence BioMed's progress in clinical activities is closely tied to the broader regulatory environment surrounding psychedelic research. In April 2026 the company publicly welcomed U.S. federal action directing the FDA to expedite review of psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine[7].
Timeline of Developments
- April 2025: Psyence signed a global ibogaine supply agreement with PsyLabs and made a USD $500,000 follow-on investment in the company[6].
- April 2026: The White House issued an order on accelerating medical treatments for serious mental illness, directing expedited FDA review for psychedelic therapies including ibogaine[2]; Psyence publicly welcomed the federal support[7].