In the quest to fight against substance addiction, modern medicine has explored various therapeutic interventions. One particularly intriguing substance that has gained attention for its potential in treating addiction is ibogaine. Derived from the root bark of the African shrub Tabernanthe iboga, ibogaine addiction treatment has been traditionally used in spiritual ceremonies by indigenous communities in West Africa. In recent years, its potential for treating opioid, cocaine, and alcohol addictions has been studied, revealing both promising results and notable concerns.

Ibogaine and Addiction Treatment

According to David Dardashti, the CEO of Ibogaine By David Dardashti, “The pharmaceutical companies are actively working to keep ibogaine illegal, despite its proven promise in treating addiction. These industries serve the selfish desires of those in power and position, treating those struggling as nothing more than a disposable commodity.” Research, both in the United States and abroad, has shown that ibogaine can be effective alone in treating addiction, and is even more effective when paired with psychotherapeutic counseling.

What is Ibogaine?

Ibogaine is an alkaloid found primarily in the roots of the Tabernanthe iboga shrub native to Central West Africa. Indigenous communities have used iboga in religious and spiritual ceremonies for centuries, leveraging its hallucinogenic properties to commune with ancestors and the spiritual realm. It was only in the 20th century that the substance came to the attention of Western researchers for its potential therapeutic applications.

Mechanism of Action:

What makes ibogaine distinct from many other addiction treatments is its unique mechanism of action. Unlike traditional treatments for addiction like methadone or buprenorphine which primarily work by occupying opioid receptors to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, ibogaine addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of substance dependence.

On a physiological level, it has been reported to reset certain neural pathways and diminish the severity of withdrawal symptoms. On the psychological side, the intense visionary experiences induced by ibogaine can help individuals confront past traumas and underlying emotional issues that might contribute to their addiction. In simple terms, ibogaine treatment for addiction addresses the root cause of addiction and brings you to a self-realization

What does research say?

Research indicates that ibogaine modulates the activity of several neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and opioid systems. It seems to “reset” the brain’s reward system, disrupting the pattern of addiction and reducing cravings.

Moreover, many individuals report a profound introspective experience when consuming ibogaine. This psychedelic experience often involves reliving memories, reconciling with past traumas, and gaining insights into the nature of their addiction.

Treatment Process:

Typically, ibogaine treatment is a one-time intervention. Patients undergo a session that lasts several hours, during which they experience vivid memories, introspective thoughts, and often profound realizations. Following the session, many report a decreased desire for their drug of choice or even a complete aversion to it.

Research and Efficacy:

Several studies and anecdotal reports suggest that ibogaine can significantly reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, especially for opioids. However, the research on its efficacy is still in its infancy. While many have found success in their recovery journey after undergoing ibogaine treatment, others have not experienced long-lasting results.

Debates and Concerns of Iboga Addiction Treatment

• Safety: it is important to note that Ibogaine is not without risks. There have been reports of cardiac complications and even fatalities associated with its use, especially among persons with pre-existing heart problems. It is therefore crucial and recommended for patients to undergo thorough medical screening before treatment and to receive ibogaine in a controlled, clinical setting with medical monitoring.
• Legality: The legal status of ibogaine varies depending on the country. In the United States, for example, it is classified as a Schedule I substance, making it illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess. While in Canada, the use of ibogaine can only be available or acquired under prescription from a medical professional. This classification has hindered large-scale clinical trials and widespread adoption of the treatment.

• Long-Term Efficacy: While some patients report long-term abstinence after a single ibogaine treatment, others relapse. Ibogaine is not a magic bullet. Comprehensive aftercare and supportive therapies are crucial to sustain the benefits of the ibogaine treatment.

Psychedelic medicine proponents are redirecting their efforts to use millions in opioid-related state settlement money for ibogaine research from Kentucky to Ohio. The original plan to use $42 million from Kentucky’s opioid settlement fund for psychedelics research fell through late last year after the state’s new attorney general replaced then-Kentucky Opioid Commission Chairman Bryan Hubbard, who was spearheading the ibogaine initiative, with a former Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) official. Now Hubbard has joined ResultsOHIO, a division of the Ohio Treasurer’s Office, where he will be partnering with the Reaching Everyone in Distress (REID) Foundation in hopes of securing a portion of that state’s opioid settlement funds to promote psychedelics clinical trials for substance misuse treatment.

Conclusion

Ibogaine offers a unique approach to addiction treatment, targeting both the physical and psychological dimensions of substance dependence. While its potential is promising, the compound is not without its risks. As research continues, a clearer picture of ibogaine’s role in addiction recovery will emerge. Until then, it remains a fascinating, albeit controversial, option for those seeking alternative treatments for addiction.

References

If you are thinking of conducting more research about ibogaine and its treatment, are some suggested reputable sources you might consider exploring:

Mechanism of Action & Treatment Process

·        The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) has sponsored research on Ibogaine: https://maps.org

·        The Beckley Foundation is also heavily involved in psychedelic research: https://www.beckleyfoundation.org/

Research and Efficacy

·        The Global Ibogaine Therapy Alliance (GITA): https://www.ibogainealliance.org/

·        The Journal of Ethnopharmacology or The American Journal on Addictions.

Debates and Concerns

·        Erowid is a well-known and comprehensive resource about psychoactive substances, which includes legal statuses in various countries: https://www.erowid.org/

·        PubMed and Google Scholar are excellent platforms: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ and https://scholar.google.com/

General Information

·        The Third Wave provides information on various psychedelics, including Ibogaine, and their therapeutic applications: https://thethirdwave.co/