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Reviewed by Ibogaine is a naturally occurring psychoactive indole alkaloid derived from the root bark of the African shrub Tabernanthe iboga.
Traditionally, Indigenous people in West Central Africa have used low dosages of these root extracts to fight fatigue, hunger, and thirst. In the 1960s, ibogaine received significant attention for its potential as an anti-addiction medication. Animal studies have proven that ibogaine can reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and decrease the self-administration of addictive drugs.
Yet, iboga root and its derivative ibogaine are illegal in the U.S., and any form of possessing, selling, and purchasing ibogaine is prohibited. Continue reading to understand the legal framework behind iboga treatment and the severe risks of obtaining ibogaine from unreliable sources.
Table Of Contents:
Ibogaine Overview
Known as the โanti-addiction drug,โ ibogaine is a psychoactive drug found in the roots of the Tabernanthe iboga shrub native to Central Africa.
Recent studies have shown that ibogaine’s mechanism of action inhibits nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are involved in various neurobiological processes, including releasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which are intensely involved in the brain’s reward and pleasure pathways. These receptors can modulate the reinforcing effects of addictive drugs like nicotine, opioids, and stimulants.
A researcher tested ibogaine in rodent models of substance abuse, finding out that ibogaine reduced the self-administration of intravenous morphine and cocaine, as well as alcohol consumption and nicotine. If the ibogaine drug sounds promising for overcoming addiction, why is it broadly used in addiction treatment?
Ibogaine, along with its major metabolite noribogaine, has potentially life-threatening side effects, leading to:
- Acute heart failure
- Cardiopulmonary arrest
- Induce intensely unpleasant psychological effects
- Cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity
- Whole-body shaking in rats
Ibogaine Legal Framework: Is Ibogaine Legal in the U.S.?
Ibogaine side effects can be such a cause of concern that it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
This classification is reserved for substances that have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use in treatment in the U.S. Despite anecdotal reports and some preliminary studies suggesting that ibogaine may help treat addiction, the lack of rigorous, large-scale clinical research to support its medical use have prevented The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve ibogaine treatment for addiction.
Why Is Ibogaine Illegal in the U.S.?
Death reports after consumption of ibogaine are one the strongest reasons behind ibogaine’s illegality.
In 1993, the FDA gave a green light to a clinical trial to explore the effects of ibogaine on humans. However, the program was halted by the death of a female participant. In 1995, after critical consultation with experts from the pharmaceutical industry, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) decided against funding additional human studies.
How to Get Ibogaine in the U.S.?
Addiction can be so overwhelming that people often try to find solutions from different sources, including unregulated treatments like ibogaine.
Even though studies suggest ibogaine may be effective for substance dependence, particularly opioid addiction, its safety is still in question. In the absence of regulatory approval, ibogaine is often obtained from dubious sources, which can lead to issues with purity and dosing. The variability in quality and concentration of ibogaine products increases the risk of adverse effects and overdose.
If you are wondering where to get ibogaine in the U.S., the answer is that you canโt. Attempting to purchase ibogaine online or through other channels can pose serious risks to your life.
Can You Make An Ibogaine Purchase Online?
As a Schedule I controlled substance, possessing, selling, or purchasing in any form within the country is illegal. To buy ibogaine online is not only against federal law but also can also carry legal and health risks.
To order ibogaine online can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Law enforcement agencies actively monitor and pursue individuals involved in the sale and distribution of illicit drugs. Also, online products may be impure, adulterated, or incorrectly dosed.
This lack of quality control can result in serious ibogaine effects, including:
- Cardiotoxicity (life-threatening conditions such as QT interval prolongation and arrhythmias)
- Neurotoxicity (long-term damage to the brain)
- Psychological effects (intense psychological experiences that can be harmful without proper supervision)
Legal Risks of Ibogaine in the U.S.
According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, ibogaine is listed as a Schedule I controlled substance. Under United States Federal Drug Laws, the civil penalty for possessing any controlled substance can include a fine reaching up to $10,000.
If criminally convicted for possession of a controlled substance, individuals may face penalties of up to one year in prison, a minimum fine of $1,000, or both, depending on the specifics of the case. Additionally, penalties tend to escalate with each subsequent offense.
If you stumble upon ads claiming to have an ibogaine plant for sale, report it to the authorities.
Where Is Iboga Legal?
The lack of ibogaine treatment centers in the USA is a significant letdown for many seeking this form of therapy. For those interested in exploring ibogaine treatments, numerous clinics are available in countries where it is approved for medical use, offering a legal avenue to access ibogaine treatment addiction.
Countries where ibogaine is either legal or unregulated include, but are not limited to:
- Canada
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Brazil
- Gabon
- The Netherlands
- New Zealand
Obtaining ibogaine within these countries provides you with an opportunity for an authentic product. Also, undergoing addiction treatment in a professional setting is safer and more effective than attempting self-medication or online purchases.
Yet, donโt forget that transporting ibogaine back to the US remains illegal, and the full treatment process needs to occur within the legal limits of the selected country.
Where Can I Get Ibogaine? โ Final Considerations
Ibogaine, a natural compound derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant, has shown promise in treating addiction. However, its legal status and associated health risks can be an obstacle for those seeking ibogaine treatment for addiction.
Since in the U.S., ibogaine is still a controlled substance, possessing, selling, and purchasing this plant is illegal and can cause legal problems. If you can afford it, international clinics in countries like Mexico, Canada, Brazil, and parts of Europe offer medical supervision and a controlled environment. However, you must thoroughly research the clinic’s reputation, legal considerations, and travel logistics.
If you canโt afford it, you can explore evidence-based treatments such as medication-assisted therapy (MAT), behavioral therapy, and support groups. These treatments are legal, regulated, and have a proven track record in managing addiction. For more information on addiction treatment options, find a local rehab center.
People Also Ask
What is ibogaine?
Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant, known for its potential in treating addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
How do I get ibogaine?
Ibogaine is available legally in some international clinics, such as in Mexico, Canada, and Brazil, where it is administered under medical supervision.
Can you buy iboga online?
Buying ibogaine online is illegal in the U.S. and dangerous due to unregulated sources and significant health risks, including cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity.
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Page Sources
- Koenig, X., & Hilber, K. (2015). The Anti-Addiction Drug Ibogaine and the Heart:ย A Delicate Relation. Molecules, 20(2), 2208-2228. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules20022208
- Straub, C. J., et al. (2023). What We Have Gained from Ibogaine: ฮฑ3ฮฒ4 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Inhibitors as Treatments for Substance Use Disorders. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 66(1), 107. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01562
- Aฤimoviฤ, T., et al. (2021). Death due to consumption of ibogaine: case report. Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology, 17(1), 126โ129. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12024-020-00342-0
- PubChem. (n.d.). Ibogaine. PubChem. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Ibogaine
- Schenberg, E. E., Comis, C., & Chaves, B. R. (2014). Treating drug dependence with the aid of ibogaine: A retrospective study. Journal of Psychopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881114552713
- Summary of Federal and State Drug Laws: https://spu.edu/~/media/university-leadership/student-life/Summary%20of%20Federal%20and%20State%20Drug%20Laws%20as%20of%205-6-16.ashx