Orlando Recovery Center does not provide ibogaine. Ibogaine is a psychedelic drug made from the root bark of an African shrub. In the United States, it is a Schedule I controlled substance. That means it has no accepted medical use and can only be given legally in approved research studies.
Some people are interested in ibogaine for opioid addiction, but it has caused serious heart rhythm problems and deaths. This page explains what is known about ibogaine and the safer, proven treatment options available.
Looking for help with opioid, alcohol or other drug addiction? Call (407) 680-1226 or verify your insurance to talk about medical detox and residential treatment in Orlando.
What is ibogaine?
Ibogaine is a natural substance found mainly in the root bark of Tabernanthe iboga, a shrub native to Central West Africa. It has long been used in traditional spiritual ceremonies, especially in Gabon.
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At high doses, ibogaine causes an intense, dream-like psychedelic experience that can last a day or longer. The body turns ibogaine into a related substance called noribogaine, which can stay in the body for days.
What does the research say about ibogaine for addiction?
Interest in ibogaine comes mostly from reports that a single dose eased opioid withdrawal and cravings for some people. A few small studies have reported similar results, and scientists are studying how ibogaine affects brain pathways involved in addiction.
The evidence is still limited:
- No large, well-controlled clinical trials have shown that ibogaine is safe or effective for addiction.
- Most studies are small, have no comparison group and follow people for a short time.
- Many studies took place at clinics outside the U.S., with different screening, doses and follow-up care.
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved ibogaine for any use.
Researchers are also studying related compounds that might keep possible benefits with less risk to the heart. For now, ibogaine remains experimental.
Why is ibogaine dangerous for your heart?
The most serious known risk of ibogaine is its effect on the heart’s electrical system. Ibogaine and noribogaine can lengthen the QT interval, the time your heart needs to reset between beats. A prolonged QT interval can trigger a dangerous, irregular heart rhythm that can lead to cardiac arrest.
Deaths have been reported during and after ibogaine use, often linked to heart problems. Because noribogaine lingers in the body, the risk can continue for days after a dose. The danger is higher for people who:
- have heart disease or a heart rhythm problem, including one they don’t know about;
- take other medicines that affect heart rhythm, including methadone and some antidepressants, antibiotics and antipsychotics;
- have recently used opioids, cocaine or other stimulants, or alcohol;
- have low potassium or magnesium, which is common with vomiting, poor nutrition or heavy drinking.
Other risks of ibogaine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of coordination and tremors
- Slow heart rate and low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Frightening hallucinations, panic, mania or psychosis
- Overdose afterward: people who go back to opioids after ibogaine may have a lower tolerance than they expect
Products sold as ibogaine may not contain what they claim, and the strength can vary. If someone has taken ibogaine and has chest pain, fainting, a racing or irregular heartbeat, a seizure or trouble breathing, call 911.
Is ibogaine legal in the U.S.?
No. Under federal law, ibogaine is a Schedule I controlled substance, the same category as heroin and LSD. It is illegal to make, sell, buy or possess it outside approved research, and federal law applies in Florida and every other state.
Some other countries don’t regulate ibogaine as strictly, and some clinics abroad advertise it for addiction. Less regulation doesn’t mean it’s safer. Screening, heart monitoring and access to emergency care vary widely, and deaths have been reported in these settings.
Safer, evidence-based options for addiction treatment
Proven treatment can help you get through withdrawal safely and build lasting recovery without the risks of an unregulated drug.
Medical detox
In medical detox at Orlando Recovery Center, a medical team monitors you as your body clears opioids, alcohol or other drugs. Medications are used to manage withdrawal symptoms when medically appropriate. Most patients complete detox in six to nine days. Detox is a first step, not a full treatment, so planning what comes next is part of the process. Learn more about opioid detox.
Residential treatment and PHP
After detox, residential treatment gives you a structured place to focus on recovery with individual and group therapy, typically for 14 to 21 days. A partial hospitalization program (PHP) offers full days of treatment without an overnight stay, typically for 14 to 21 days. These lengths of stay are typical. Yours is based on your clinical needs and your insurance.
Some people who look into ibogaine are also dealing with depression, anxiety or trauma. We provide mental health treatment and care for co-occurring disorders, and we plan your aftercare with you before you leave.
Medications for opioid use disorder
FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder are among the most studied treatments for opioid addiction. Talk with a doctor about whether one of them is right for you.
Does insurance cover addiction treatment?
Orlando Recovery Center is in network with several insurers for substance use treatment, including Aetna, Cigna, Florida Blue (BCBS), Humana and UnitedHealthcare/Optum. Coverage depends on your plan, so verify your insurance or call (407) 680-1226.
Ibogaine FAQs
Does Orlando Recovery Center offer ibogaine therapy?
No. Orlando Recovery Center does not provide ibogaine. We offer medical detox, residential treatment and partial hospitalization for adults 18 and older.
Is ibogaine legal in Florida?
No. Ibogaine is a Schedule I drug under federal law, which applies in Florida. It can only be used legally in approved research studies.
Is ibogaine safe?
It has not been shown to be safe. Ibogaine can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems, and deaths have been reported, sometimes days after a dose.
Can ibogaine cure addiction?
No treatment cures addiction, and large, high-quality studies have not shown that ibogaine works. Addiction is a long-term condition that is treated with ongoing care and support.
