Ibogaine: History, Pharmacology, Spirituality, & Clinical Data

Summary

Ibogaine, derived from the Tabernathe iboga shrub, has shown potential in alleviating acute withdrawal symptoms in human trials, though results on long-term abstinence and toxicity vary. While it may not be a definitive solution, multiple treatments can lead to considerable abstinence. However, there are serious risks associated with its use, including QT prolongation that can cause lethal heart arrhythmias.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Ibogaine is an indole alkaloid derived from the African shrub Tabernathe iboga with broad anti-addictive, anti-depressant, and central nervous system stimulating effects. It is categorized as an oneriogen (or atypical hallucinogen) and has been used in West African tribal rituals for centuries. It was identified by French explorers in the early 1900s, came to the United States in the 1960s, and became marginalized in the mid-1990s after adverse outcomes halted federally funded human trials. Since then legal ibogaine treatment clinics have been established in countries without use restrictions. Ibogaine is a σ1 and σ2 receptor and μ and κ opioid receptor agonist and a α3β4 nicotinic and NMDA receptor antagonist. Decades of trials have demonstrated ibogaine’s potential. Human trials of ibogaine consistently demonstrate rapid remission of acute withdrawal symptoms but differ in their findings with regard to abstinence and toxicity. While ibogaine is not a “magic bullet,” considerable abstinence may result after multiple treatments, however QT prolongation can produce lethal ventricular tachyarrhythmias.18 MC is in pre-clinical investigation.