Ibogaine for Stimulants

Ibogaine can provide many benefits to those intending to transition out of problematic relationships with a variety of different stimulants, including cocaine, crack, methamphetamine, or adderall. Among other neurochemical effects, stimulants affect the dopaminergic systems that modulate reward and motivation, as well as relaxation and pain response. Studies in animal models as well tens of thousands of anecdotal reports have shown that ibogaine can lead to a reduction in cravings.

At Anzelmo we work with some of the most experienced medical professionals and therapy providers in the field to provide the most comfortable, natural and humane treatment possible. We also provide a number of supportive modalities including psychotherapy, integration coaching, body work, yoga, nutritional planning, and others so that you can make the most of the beneficial time following treatment.

Stimulants can have a powerful effect mood, energy levels, cognitive function and focus. However, because of their action on the dopaminergic system, which can lead to dependence, it can be difficult and uncomfortable to stop stimulant use and to deal with the resulting cravings and circular thinking around both the ritual of use and the drugs effects. This may be because of the desired effects and the belief that stimulants provide the only means of maintaining a desired level of performance or mental state.

In other cases, stimulants have ceased to provide that same benefit or our patients simply desire to live life without the use of stimulants and the additional consequences that use entails.

For people who have continued to use stimulants despite the accumulation of negative consequences, there is often more than just a chemical dependency in play. Many people deal with chronic pain, discomfort, or various forms of trauma, whether that is physical, emotional, or psychological. The body in this case has learned to use stimulants as a primary form of motivation or as a response to any signal of distress, and often doesn’t know other strategies for regulating emotions, pain, or a lack of focus, etc., without them.

At Anzelmo we work with a number of adjunct modalities, discussing other supportive strategies that can support through the acute period after ibogaine and provide access to other services such as aftercare recommendations and ibogaine coaching services that can be supportive in retraining the body and the mind in new strategies.

Because of the interaction between stimulants and ibogaine, we require that patients stop taking stimulants for a sufficient period prior to arriving at Anzelmo. The duration varies slightly depending on the specific stimulant involved. Cocaine and crack require a minimum of 7 days pre-treatment, and 5 days pre-treatment for methamphetamine, MDMA, or prescription stimulants like Ritallin or Adderall.

We can provide any further guidance about this pre-treatment, and to further prevent possible complications we ensure that this period has been sufficient to metabolize any residual stimulants once you arrive. We are happy to discuss this information with your medical professional, or to send over documentation and resources, as needed.

Please note: These periods are designed to provide a minimal level of comfort. If it is possible to do so comfortably, it can be beneficial to extend these periods further. Taking the opportunity to stabilize as much as possible prior to treatment, and making aftercare arrangements prior to arriving all can lead to a more comfortable experience overall.

It is common that stimulant and alcohol use go hand in hand. In the body, this combination can produce chemical metabolites with even more powerful central nervous system effects as well as unintended side effects. We recommend that patient who combine stimulants and alcohol also look into treatment considerations for alcohol.