Today, many claim ibogaine can be used as a treatment for opiate addiction. Yet, it hasn’t been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any addictive disorder, and ibogaine is still classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States and in other countries too. So can ibogaine addiction therapy be used for addiction treatment?
So, what’s the truth about ibogaine as a treatment for addiction? And is it effective at helping people with their dependence on opiates and other drugs?
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Is Ibogaine Addiction Therapy a Safe Treatment for Drug Addiction?
Substance Addiction can be described as a chronic condition due to a result of long-term changes caused by drugs to the reward centers of the brain. When people take Ibogaine, it then becomes converted into a compound called, Noribogaine.
The newly transformed substance targets the area of the brain that is affected by the drug’s addictive behaviors. This works by returning these areas and allows the brain to restructure itself to its pre-addiction state.
Though Ibogaine can prevent drug cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms, the ibogaine treatment process for drug addiction is more like a final way to stop addiction.
Ibogaine in the body converted to Noribogaine acts as a stimulant when taken in small doses. In large doses, it puts a person into a psychedelic state.
What Does a Typical Ibogaine Treatment Feel Like?
Depending upon the severity of the Addiction condition, the doctor provides an adequate Ibogaine dose to the patients. After receiving the ibogaine dose, the individual experiences a psychedelic state for several hours.
Depending upon the severity of the Addiction condition, the doctor provides an adequate Ibogaine dose to the patients. After receiving the ibogaine dose, the individual experiences a psychedelic state for several hours.
During that time in his psychedelic state, the patient gets insight into why they started using drugs and reaches a point of clarity where they never had before.
Most of the patients don’t get any cravings or symptoms after a relapse. However, a therapist might recommend that you attend counseling or support groups for proper follow-up after the Ibogaine treatment session.
Does Ibogaine have any risks?
Using ibogaine comes with serious risks that may even include death if overdosed or taken without the knowledge of your health care provider. Additional complications will include:
- Seizures
- Gastrointestinal Issues
- Heart Complications, Such As Arrhythmias
- Ataxia
Those suffering from any heart issues or having a history of cardiac problems should stay off Ibogaine.
What Does Research Say About the Success Rate of Ibogaine Treatment for Drug and Alcohol Addiction?
Could ibogaine be the key to ending drug addiction? Find out here
In a study conducted in Mexico, the investigators researched drug abuse changes in people seeking ibogaine treatment for opiate withdrawal symptoms. They measured the frequency and dosage of opiate use before the beginning of the treatment, as well as at the monthly follow-ups.
According to the results of the study:
1/3rd of the patients relapsed within 30 days of treatment.
60% of them relapsed in the first two months whereas, 80% relapsed within six months of treatment.
Though it is significant data, long-term recovery depends on entering a rehabilitation program after getting ibogaine treatment under the doctor’s supervision.
Is Ibogaine A Safe Treatment For Drug Addiction?
Additional Treatment Options for Addiction
If you are seeking help for any substance addiction, it is good to first speak with your healthcare provider before starting any treatment plan, including experimental ones. Most addiction treatments follow this process:
- Detoxification to rid the body of the drug. Which can be done at home with the assistance of your healthcare provider or at a treatment center. You can find these detox centers throughout the country. Detox centers always come fully staffed with compassionate, caring professionals trained in getting someone through the challenging detox transition.
- Behavioral counseling. Getting a counselor is another way of dealing with addiction. Psychologists are trained to work with persons suffering from drug addiction. Psychologists work with individuals and help ease them into their new, drug-free lives. You can feel safe and secure and know that what you say is kept in a confidential environment. You should look for someone you feel comfortable with.
- Prescription for medications to help with any detox pain.
- Evaluation for any mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety that often follow a detox.
- A schedule for long-term follow-ups. Overcoming addiction is tough, so it’s important to always seek help and support from medical professionals who can work with you on remaining drug-free.
Conclusion
Treatment with Ibogaine uses a safe approach to ease the drug abuse symptoms and help live a productive life. However, if one addiction treatment doesn’t work for you, your doctor may come up with another plan to help.
So generally, with good treatment and medical supervision from experts, it is possible to get back on the road to living a healthy life.
