Ibogaine
The addiction interrupter
Where it comes from
Ibogaine is derived from the root bark of Tabernanthe iboga, a shrub native to Gabon and neighbouring West African countries, where it has been used in Bwiti initiation and healing rites for generations.
Western interest began in the 1960s with reports that a single dose sharply reduced opioid withdrawal and craving — an effect that has since been documented in observational studies of treatment centres outside the United States.
How it is understood to work
Ibogaine and its metabolite noribogaine act on multiple receptor systems at once — opioid, serotonergic, glutamatergic, and nicotinic — which appears to reset the neurochemical adaptations built up by chronic substance use.
Clinically, the effect people describe is twofold: withdrawal is dramatically blunted, and the compulsion to use quiets long enough for real work to begin.
What the experience is like
Treatment takes place in a darkened private room over roughly 24 to 36 hours. The first several hours are typically an intense, dreamlike, visual state; the following hours are quieter and reflective. Nausea, unsteadiness, and profound fatigue are common.
A physician and caregiver remain present throughout, with continuous cardiac and vital-sign monitoring. Most people sleep heavily afterwards and need several days to come back to themselves.
In our protocol
Where it fits
Ibogaine is the medicine most often used at HHH for opioid, stimulant, and alcohol dependency, always after detox preparation and cardiac clearance. It is administered once, not repeatedly, and is followed by integration days built into the stay.
Risks & screening
Before it is offered
- ECG, echocardiogram, and cardiac stress test are mandatory — ibogaine prolongs the QT interval
- Full blood panel including liver, kidney, and electrolyte function
- Magnesium and potassium corrected before administration
- Certain medications — including some SSRIs, opioids, and antiarrhythmics — must be tapered in advance
- Excluded with significant cardiac disease, severe liver impairment, or active psychosis
- [PLACEHOLDER — client to confirm dosing protocol and taper windows with medical director]
Whatever you're battling, there's a place for you here.
Call or send a request and we'll arrange a private, confidential conversation. No obligation, and no pressure to commit to anything.