From monotherapy to sequential models: An updated scoping review on ibogaine’s role in treatment for psychiatric disorders
Journal of Psychopharmacology May 12, 2026 Pravesh Sharma, Jared Kendrick, Jennifer Schram et al.
A review of human studies on ibogaine and its metabolite noribogaine found only three randomized controlled trials. In one pilot study, a single 1800 mg dose of ibogaine reduced cocaine craving versus placebo over up to 24 weeks in 20 adults. Noribogaine doses of 3-60 mg were safe in 36 healthy volunteers. In 27 opioid-dependent patients, noribogaine 60-180 mg caused dose-dependent QTc prolongation with non-significant reductions in withdrawal symptoms. Adverse effects include neurologic, psychiatric, and cardiac events, and fatalities have occurred with comorbidities. Microdosing protocols lack standardized definitions and are supported only by preliminary observational data. The authors conclude that clinical use cannot be recommended without larger, well-controlled trials due to cardiotoxicity and a narrow therapeutic margin.