Our meta-analysis showed no significant results about the risk of developing nausea and visual impairment after treatment with ibogaine, whereas there was a small significant risk of developing headaches. In this regard, both studies were conducted in a controlled clinical environment. Furthermore, we do not know what methods were used to extract ibogaine and its actual purity, which may be a determinant of its toxicity , as well as the huge variety of dosages reported in the literature. Unfortunately, in addition to the anti-dependency effect, our results showed a high risk of mortality 33, 45, 50, 52, 54, 55, 57, 58, 72 mainly related to the cardiotoxicity of ibogaine; these results overlap with a recent systematic review that specifically analysed the adverse effects of ibogaine (CITA). In fact, a recent review on the use of psychedelics in treating psychiatric and addictive disorders showed that in SUD subjects, the intensity of the acute psychedelic experience was the main predictor of the response to the drug.
Challenges of Ibogaine Treatment Process
Four other studies reported no adverse effects 66-68, 70, four others nausea and vomiting 33, 69, 71, 72, two cases of ataxia 64, 69, one case of hallucination , one case QTc alterations and bradycardia and finally others and non-specific 33, 65, 69, 71, 72. One study reported one death 33, 72, one case of elevated mood and, one case of decreased depressive and anxious symptoms, and increased subjective well-being . Concomitant drugs were not reported except in one article where several substances of abuse were reported .
- Although only two double-blind placebo-controlled studies have emerged 61, 62, our results seem to confirm preclinical studies on animals that showed the anti-addictive properties of ibogaine, reducing craving and self-administration of opioid, alcohol and cocaine and its effectiveness against opioid withdrawal .
- They often report a sense of clarity and emotional release that traditional treatments sometimes lack.
- The main difficulty regarding the literature on the use of ibogaine in treating SUD concerns its heterogeneity due to the lack of controlled clinical trials.
- Ibogaine was taken under medical supervision and reduced symptoms of cocaine dependence.
- Death was also a highly represented outcome 45, 50, 52, 54, 55, 57, 58 followed by significant cardiac adverse effects 46, 51, 56, 59.
Product Reviews
Cassandra Sierra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with over 30 years of experience in mental health and addiction recovery. Yet, it’s crucial to weigh the potential side effects and ensure you’re well-informed. In conclusion, we’ve dug deep into the fascinating world of Ibogaine treatment for addiction. Another common treatment, like substitution therapy with medications such as buprenorphine, aims to manage withdrawal symptoms over time.
Ibogaine
- Unfortunately, there is a lack of specific studies on this subject to date .
- One article was a survey describing 27 subjects with an average age of 35 years (gender not reported) suffering from SUD (alcohol or drugs-not specified) taking ibogaine in a home/clandestine setting at an unspecified dosage and mode of intake.
- In humans, the elimination half-life of ibogaine is about 7 hours whereas the half-life of noribogaine is 24 to 50 hours.
- Regulations vary, and some clinics offer qualified medical supervision while others do not.
- Derived from the root bark of the African iboga tree, ibogaine is administered in a controlled setting, often as a powder or an extract.
- The visionary stage typically lasts 4–8 hours, but may last longer with especially high doses.
Only two double-blind studies emerged, a limitation in determining the therapeutic efficacy of ibogaine and the meta-analysis results, which would have benefited from a larger number of studies. The main difficulty regarding the literature on the use of ibogaine in treating SUD concerns its heterogeneity due to the lack of controlled clinical trials. The lack of adequate controlled clinical trials does not allow a definitive answer about the therapeutic efficacy of ibogaine and its safety. New clinical trials are under development 98-101 and may dispel doubts about the real effectiveness and toxicity of the drug. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) chose not to fund the proposed phase I/II clinical trials , and the FDA blocked the Phase I clinical trial on the use of ibogaine in recently abstinent patient volunteers 37, 97. Other authors propose treatment in psychoanalytic clinical settings followed by psychoanalytic psychotherapy for up to 2-3 years or intensive one-week treatments .
Subsequently, several studies tested ibogaine for the treatment of substance abuse in humans, particularly opioid addictions suggesting that it was able to reduce opioid craving, eliminate signs and symptoms of opioid withdrawal, and aid in the transition to abstinence 5, 12. The second study in New Zealand found that a single ibogaine treatment lessened opioid withdrawal symptoms over 12 months and helped participants either stop or reduce their opioid use. The first study, conducted in Mexico, found that ibogaine improved opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduced drug use in individuals who did not find success with previous treatment methods.
In the heart, ibogaine causes long QT syndrome at higher doses, apparently by blocking hERG potassium channels and slowing the heart rate. Depression can persist well after 36 hours, known as a “grey day”; the effect is well-recognized. Sensation and perception return to normal, but nausea, headaches, and other side effects linger. The visionary stage typically lasts 4–8 hours, but may last longer with especially high doses. Visual effects are almost always present and are often described as films or slideshows. Ibogaine is derived from the root of Tabernanthe iboga, a plant known to exhibit hallucinogenic effects in people who use consume it.
Diminution of morphine self-administration was reported in preclinical studies by Glick et al. in 1991. The first objective, placebo-controlled evidence of ibogaine’s ability to attenuate opioid withdrawal in rats was published by Dzoljic et al. in 1988. Further anecdotal observation convinced Lotsof of its potential usefulness in treating substance addictions.
Plus, many people find that it can help them confront underlying issues that contributed to their substance use. Users often describe their experience as a kind of reset button for their lives, leading to new perspectives and a renewed sense of purpose. Plus, you might be surprised to learn how many people have found hope through this treatment. From understanding how it works in the brain to discussing the safety aspects, we’re here to keep you informed and engaged!
Health Conditions
The use of iboga in African spiritual ceremonies was first reported by French and Belgian explorers in the 19th century, beginning with the work of French naval physician and explorer of Gabon Marie-Théophile Griffon du Bellay. Due to environmental concerns and low levels in Tabernanthe iboga, ibogaine is often produced via semi-synthesis starting with voacangine, a naturally-occurring alkaloid in Voacanga africana. Ibogaine is also available in a total Ibogaine treatment alkaloid extract of the Tabernanthe iboga plant, which also contains all the other iboga alkaloids and thus has only about half the potency by weight of standardized ibogaine hydrochloride.
Ibogaine Addiction Treatment and Therapy
The introspective is poorly defined, often simply as 24 or 36 hours post-treatment. With full hallucinogenic doses, ibogaine is described as having three different phases of effects. It is described as having a typical dose range of 1,000 to 1,500 mg orally, with these doses producing hallucinogenic effects, and a duration of 18 to 36 hours.
Use and effects
It’s hard to evaluate ibogaine’s efficacy partly because it’s illegal in many countries. As opioid agonists, they work by activating opioid receptors without producing euphoria.5, 7, 8 In the U.S., over two-thirds of drug-overdose-related deaths involved opioids.1, 2 The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you or a loved one struggles with drug or alcohol addiction, Orlando Recovery Center is here to help. These anecdotal reports are supported by professionals like Dr. Joseph Peter Barsuglia, who notes that Ibogaine appears to reset the brain pharmacologically while providing deep psychological insight into the drivers of addiction.
Several studies support using other psychedelic drugs for substance abuse treatment. Most claims about ibogaine treatment outcomes are based on case studies and anecdotal reports.5, 9 Orlando Recovery Center offers comprehensive addiction treatment for drug and alcohol addictions and co-occurring mental health conditions. Ibogaine therapy, while gaining attention for its potential in addiction treatment, comes with significant risks and side effects that warrant careful consideration.
“The results are dramatic, and we intend to study this compound further.” These treatment settings are typically found in countries such as Mexico, the Caribbean, and certain jurisdictions in Europe or New Zealand. Medical staff also manage immediate physical side effects that occur during the acute phase, such as severe nausea, vomiting, and temporary loss of motor coordination (ataxia). The primary focus is on continuous cardiac monitoring, using telemetry equipment, for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours after the dose. This calculation aims to achieve the therapeutic “addiction interrupter” dose while remaining within safety parameters.
In limited human research, neuropathological examination revealed no evidence of neuronal degenerative changes in an adult female patient who had received four separate doses of ibogaine ranging between 10 and 30 mg/kg over a 15-month interval. However, subsequent research found no evidence of this neurotoxicity with ibogaine in a primate. Death can occur, especially if consumed with opioids or in people with comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease or neurological disorders.
It’s crucial to consult healthcare professionals familiar with this therapy to ensure that it’s a suitable option for you. Not only does ibogaine address the physiological aspects of addiction, but it also provides an opportunity for emotional and spiritual healing. It’s not just a buzzword; many users report profound experiences that bring clarity and insight into their addiction issues. Derived from the roots of the African iboga plant, this treatment is believed to have powerful therapeutic effects.
The administration process begins with an intensive preparatory phase focused on patient safety, known as pre-treatment screening. The other form is a Total Alkaloid Extract (TA), which contains ibogaine alongside other alkaloids found in the plant, such as ibogaline and tabernanthine. The preferred form for clinical and research protocols is Ibogaine Hydrochloride (HCl), a refined, isolated, and standardized chemical compound. The entire process, from initial screening to post-dosing care, must be conducted in a highly controlled, clinical environment to ensure patient safety. The initiative, supported by former Governor Rick Perry, established a consortium of universities, hospitals, and drug developers, with the goal of positioning Texas as a leading center for psychedelic medicine research.
Some research suggests that this altered state may help alleviate symptoms of withdrawal and curb cravings. She has a wide range of clinical experiences, ranging from years of traditional clinic practice to hospitalist care to performing peer quality review to ensure optimal patient care. Natalie Watkins is a medical writer and educator specializing in mental health. Given that ibogaine is not available within the US, most people will need to travel to South America, Mexico, or New Zealand for treatment. Finally, an ibogaine experience can be highly distressing, with some patients experiencing visions or hallucinations of extreme violence and suffering.
