A phenomenological investigation into the lived experience of ibogaine and its potential to treat opioid use disorders
Thaddeus James Camlin, Donald Eulert, A. Thomas Horvath, Steven F. Bucky, Joseph P. Barsuglia, Martín Polanco
Journal of Psychedelic Studies June 1, 2018 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1556/2054.2018.004 via OpenAlex
Summary
Ibogaine treatment for opioid use disorder leads to significant changes in participants' experiences, including alleviation of withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The study identified themes related to neurological and physical effects, as well as shifts in self-perception and overall outlook on life. Participants reported a powerful physiological, emotional, and psychological experience that contributed to a more optimistic perspective.
Study at a glance
| Design | qualitative study |
|---|---|
| Population | individuals who underwent ibogaine treatment for opioid use disorder |
| Key finding | Ibogaine treatment attenuates opioid withdrawal and results in a more optimistic outlook on self and life. |
Abstract
This study examined the lived experience of individuals who underwent ibogaine treatment for an opioid use disorder. Semi-structured interview questions probed for potential changes in predetermined categories derived from a literature review. Participants' experiences with ibogaine were analyzed for commonalities and emergent themes. Categories that emerged revealed themes about subjective neurological and physical effects, auditory and visual phenomena, impact on withdrawal and craving, and shifts in outlook on self and life. Ibogaine treatment provides a subjectively powerful physiological, emotional, and psychological experience, attenuates opioid withdrawal, and results in a more optimistic outlook on self and life.