Underground ibogaine use for the treatment of substance use disorders: A qualitative analysis of subjective experiences
Authors:
Borja J. Rodríguez-Cano, Maja Kohek, Genís Oña, Miguel Ángel Alcázar-Córcoles, Rafael G. dos Santos, Jaime E. C. Hallak, and José Carlos Bouso.
Journal:
Drug and Alcohol Review
Year:
2022
About the study
The aim of this study was to explore underground ibogaine use for the treatment of substance use disorders. It provides an understanding of the underlying psychological aspects of treatment and its effects on this condition from the perspective of people who took it at least once in their life.
Abstract
Introduction: Ibogaine is one of the alkaloids naturally found in plants such as Tabernanthe iboga, which has been traditionally used by members of the Bwiti culture. Since the discovery of its anti-addictive properties by Howard S. Lotsof in 1962, ibogaine has been used experimentally to treat substance use disorders (SUD), especially those involving opioids. We aim to provide a detailed understanding of the underlying psychological aspects of underground ibogaine use for the treatment of SUD.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 13 participants with SUD, which motivated their self-treatment with ibogaine. The data were analysed using the grounded theory approach and considered the context of the treatment, and the nature of the occurring hallucinogenic and cognitive phenomena during the treatment experience.
Results: We identified several psychological effects that the study respondents experienced, which seem to play a substantial role in the therapeutic process concerning SUD. The evoking of interpersonal and transpersonal experiences, autobiographical memories, and preparation, integration and motivation for a lifestyle change are important components that participants reported during and after ibogaine intake.
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Categories:
Studies & papers
, Iboga and ibogaine
Tags:
scientific research
, study
, Tabernanthe iboga
, psychedelics
, hallucinogens
, addiction treatment
, substance use disorders