Serious Medicine

We would be remiss not to discuss the real DANGERS and difficulties involved with the ingestion of high doses of ibogaine. Perhaps you have read horror stories online about ‘trips from hell’. You have more likely seen the POSITIVE TESTIMONIALS widely available on YouTube. The variety of ibogaine treatment experiences is broad, but many people are surprised at how difficult and 'harsh' it is. Several women have described it as being just as physically demanding as childbirth. Many describe ibogaine therapy as having been the most difficult experience of their lives. There are many benefits, but the costs should be anticipated.

PAWS and Ibogaine Therapy

Rapid opiate detox with ibogaine is not a complete releif from post acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS). Most clients should expect up to a week of discomfort, sleeplessness, loose bowels, anxiety, leg cramps and sneezing. At IbogaLife we treat these recurring symptoms with ibogaine or iboga boosters, which provides varying levels of relief.

Specific Dangers

Even with precautions, some people will have complications during treatment. We have noticed that despite rigorous screenings, about one percent of our clients require medical attention.

First things first: most deaths medical emergencies with ibogaine are avoidable 1) with proper medical screening, and 2) administered without contraindicated drugs. Let’s look at these topics.

Heart and circulatory problems including bradycardia and embolism provide undesirable risks for ibogaine treatment. Liver function may need to be examined with bloodwork. All prospective clients will undergo an ECG (EKG) and have it examined before their session is scheduled. In rare cases, unexplainable heart failures occur. Watch THIS for more about recent findings.

Additionally, before, during and after iboga therapy or ibogaine treatment, it is crucial that the participant abstain from any medicine, drug, active plant or alcohol that is not provided by the facilitator(s). Most experienced providers agree that the main source of avoidable trauma associated with the ingestion of ibogaine is covert self-medication, especially in detox treatment. If you have any questions about medicines you feel you cannot cease during your treatment, discuss this with your provider.

Safe by Nature

Iboga has been consumed by many thousands of people for hundreds (probably thousands) of years. In Gabon today, we have seen two year olds imbibe the root bark, attesting to its safety. It is here to help, not harm; but like any medicine, it must be consumed respectfully and with a sense of responsibility.

Speak frankly with your provider about psychological disorders, mental health hospitalizations or neurological disorders. Certain persons should have the attention of a mental health professional throughout their ibogaine experience.

For more detailed information about medical screening for ibogaine treatment candidates, see our screening page HERE.