| Ibogaine's Anti-Addictive Effects: A Review of Animal and Human Studies on Substance Use Disorders |
| Paper ID : 1197-IGA |
| Authors |
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Sogol Fereydouni Balangani * Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria |
| Abstract |
| Abstract Background and Aim: Ibogaine, a naturally occurring psychoactive alkaloid derived from Tabernanthe iboga, has garnered significant attention for its potential in treating substance use disorders. Its active metabolite, noribogaine, plays a critical role in its pharmacological effects. The aim of this study is to review ibogaine's anti-addictive effects in animal and human studies. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Relevant studies were identified using the keywords "Tabernanthe iboga," " ibogaine," " addictive effect," "animal study,” and "human study". Inclusion criteria were set to include only published papers after 2015 and those available in the English language. Results: Ibogaine and noribogaine exert their anti-addictive properties through a complex interplay of signaling pathways. They act as non-competitive antagonists of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, modulating glutamatergic transmission and reducing excitotoxicity associated with withdrawal. Additionally, they function as κ-opioid receptor agonists and weak μ-opioid receptor agonists, influencing opioid withdrawal symptoms. A key mechanism involves the enhancement of serotonergic signaling via serotonin transporter (SERT) inhibition, increasing synaptic serotonin availability. Furthermore, ibogaine modulates dopamine pathways by weakly inhibiting dopamine transporters (DAT), which may attenuate drug craving. It also promotes neuroplasticity by upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which may facilitate long-term behavioral changes. Conclusion: The ibogaine's multifaceted interactions highlight ibogaine's potential as a novel pharmacotherapeutic agent for addiction. However, concerns regarding cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity warrant further research into its safety, optimal dosing, and therapeutic mechanisms before clinical implementation. |
| Keywords |
| Keywords: Tabernanthe iboga, Ibogaine, Addictive effect, Animal model, Clinical studies |
| Status: Accepted |
