Ibogaine Side Effects

Although ibogaine is an effective cure for not only arresting the cycles of addiction but for greatly reducing withdrawal symptoms and minimizing cravings, it is, to an extent, taxing on the body. More so than with other plant medicines, patients will usually experience some unpleasant sensations during the treatment. Here, we explain some of ibogaine’s side effects.

One of such effects which often happens as the ibogaine begins to act on the body is a buzzing drone in the ears, which can play out for the duration of the treatment; however, this is not one of the more unpleasant symptoms it is known for.

What can be more distressing to some is a condition medically known as “ataxia,” which is the inability to coordinate voluntary muscle movements, caused by the plant’s effect on the central nervous system . Some of our patients require assistance to complete otherwise basic tasks such as going to the bathroom.

Some of the visions induced by the ibogaine journey can be challenging, as this powerful entheogen will take key repressed memories of traumatic or life-changing events from one’s subconscious and re-enact them in the form of visions, experienced as lucid dreams while one’s eyes are closed.

While patients are encouraged to sit with such visions to see what they can learn from observing them in a safe space, if any particular vision becomes too unbearable, one can always open one’s eyes and focus on any point of the room, which will usually halt that particular memory.

Because we are prepared for such circumstances, we have a dedicated round-the-clock medical and nursing team on hand to assist you with all your needs.

While under the effects of ibogaine, it is usual to undergo two to three days without a full night’s sleep, insomnia being triggered on account of its stimulant properties. However, when sleep does eventually arrive, patients will usually feel transported into the feathery arms of deep, restorative sleep, from which they will awake feeling rejuvenated and renewed.

Another of ibogaine’s side effects can be nausea, which frequently results in vomiting, it is common for some patients to purge quite intensely, while others, may purge less. This is why, here at Tabula Rasa Retreat, we cannot overstate the essential role our nursing team plays in maintaining maximum levels of comfort and care.