Ibogaine

Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid found in the root bark of Tabernanthe iboga. It has been investigated for substance dependence, but can cause dangerous cardiac effects and death.

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Noribogaine: Noribogaine is an active metabolite produced when the body processes ibogaine. Its longer persistence may extend some effects after ibogaine is taken.
Opioid use disorder: Opioid use disorder is a chronic condition involving impaired control over opioid use despite harmful consequences. Ibogaine has been studied as an intervention for opioid withdrawal and ongoing dependence.
Tabernanthe iboga: Tabernanthe iboga is a Central African shrub whose roots contain ibogaine and related alkaloids. It is the natural source of ibogaine and the plant used in traditional preparations.
Torsades de pointes: Torsades de pointes is a potentially fatal form of ventricular tachycardia associated with prolonged QT intervals. This dangerous rhythm has been reported in connection with ibogaine exposure.
Psilocybin: Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms and converted in the body to psilocin. Both have been explored for substance-related problems, but they act differently and have distinct risk profiles.
NMDA receptor: The NMDA receptor is a glutamate-gated ion channel involved in synaptic signaling and plasticity. Ibogaine interacts with this receptor, one of several proposed contributors to its effects.
Cocaine use disorder: Cocaine use disorder is a pattern of cocaine use that causes clinically significant impairment or distress. Observational reports and limited studies have explored ibogaine for cocaine dependence.
Bwiti: Bwiti is a set of spiritual and initiatory traditions practiced by communities in Gabon and neighboring regions. Iboga has ceremonial significance in some Bwiti traditions, distinct from its clinical investigation.
Sudden cardiac death: Sudden cardiac death is an unexpected death caused by abrupt loss of effective heart function. Fatal cardiac events have been reported after ibogaine use, including in treatment settings.
Ketamine: Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic used medically and, in some settings, for depression. Its clinical evidence and regulated medical uses contrast with ibogaine's limited evidence and cardiac hazards.