addiction

Ibogaine For Addiction: 5 Reasons Why It’s Safer To Do It In A Hospital

Published

2 years ago

March 7, 2023

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By Santiago Federico Richetti via El Planteo / Reviewed by Dr. Bruno Rasmussen Chaves

Ibogaine is a substance extracted from the root of the iboga, a shrub that grows in West Africa. For thousands of years, it has been used by indigenous cultures for healing rituals. Since the 1960s, a series of studies have been carried out, both in animals and in humans, which have shown its properties to reduce the withdrawal syndrome to opiates and other substances that cause addiction.

Current scientific evidence confirms that ibogaine has potentially useful effects to treat chemical dependency, which is why various clinics worldwide have begun to offer this type of therapy. However, it must be taken into account that it is a drug with a high level of toxicity and that its irresponsible intake carries risks for the patient that can even mean death. It is for this reason that it is essential, to guarantee your safety, that the provision of these treatments is carried out in environments equipped with an infrastructure and a team of suitable professionals, according to the standards of modern medicine.

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Here are five reasons why ibogaine-based addiction treatments should be done in hospital settings.

Need To Perform Intervention In A Safe, Legal Environment, With The Necessary Medical Equipment And Infrastructure

Ibogaine exerts its action directly on the Central Nervous System, causing physical and psychological effects on the body. Its high level of toxicity carries with it some dangers associated with the dose and the context in which it is ingested. It is for this reason that it is essential that the sessions are carried out in a pleasant environment and capable of guaranteeing patient support. This must have adequate infrastructure (spacious and clean facilities), as well as the necessary medical supplies (cardiac monitoring devices and defibrillators) so that the treatment is safe.

It is also of great importance that the center where the session is held adheres to the ethical codes and established medical protocols. Some providers often offer these therapies clandestinely and illegally in unregulated settings, which carries considerable risks. It should be considered that, internationally, the medicinal use of ibogaine is prohibited in several countries.

The therapies assisted by this substance to treat patients with addiction are legal, however, in some Latin American countries. In Mexico, for example, there are several private centers that legally offer this type of therapy, although state regulations in this country do not require that they be carried out in hospital settings. For its part, in Brazil, ibogaine is neither registered nor prohibited, its importation and use being legal since 2013 as long as the patient has a medical prescription. A decree of the state of Sao Paulo in 2016 requires that treatments based on the intake of ibogaine must be carried out under medical supervision and in hospital settings. These types of regulations are essential to ensure the safe and legal use of ibogaine.

Need For Prior Medical And Psychological Examinations To Determine Contraindications

It is highly probable, due to the high toxicity of ibogaine, that its intake may have unwanted effects on the functioning of the organism, mainly the Cardiac System. It is for this reason that it is usually contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular problems. Before carrying out the treatment, it is necessary for the patient to undergo a thorough medical examination to determine if it will be risky or not. Each case must be analyzed by a qualified doctor who determines if the patient meets the necessary physical conditions to start the session.

doctor patient — Photo by Thirdman via Pexels

Ibogaine is also contraindicated in patients with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder. Carrying out psychological or psychiatric examinations prior to the start of treatment is, therefore, of great importance. The mental health professional in charge of these check-ups must evaluate the presence of these disorders and their severity in order to establish whether the patient is able to resist treatment without complications.

It is from these studies that the professionals in charge will determine whether or not it is risky to carry out the treatment and, if they decide that it is pertinent to do so, they will take the necessary precautions to reduce the possible risks during the session.

The Hospital Environment Contributes To The Physical Preparation Prior To The Session

Ibogaine is a powerful drug whose effects can cause a physically intense experience for the patient. It is for this reason that, the better the physical condition of the latter, the more intervention will be safer and more efficient. Generally, doctors recommend good hydration, a careful diet, based on healthy foods, and the intake of vitamin and mineral supplements. Likewise, it is recommended to stop consuming water and fast a few hours before the session, since it is difficult to have to go to the bathroom during the session due to the ataxia induced by ibogaine intake.

On the other hand, it is essential that weeks before and during the administration of the treatment, the patient avoids the consumption of any type of psychoactive. Indeed, the interaction of certain drugs with ibogaine could increase cardiac risks, even causing death. It is for this reason that many centers tend to carry out a guided detoxification process sometime before ingestion, thus increasing the safety of the session considerably.

Carrying Out The Session In A Hospital Environment Allows Adequate Monitoring By Health Professionals To Avoid Or Reduce The Side Effects of Ibogaine

Therapeutic interventions based on the intake of ibogaine are often controversial due to the risks they entail. Among the most frequent side effects are the presence of dizziness, nausea, vomiting, motor coordination difficulties, and tachyarrhythmias.

It can be inferred, therefore, that it is necessary for the sessions to be monitored by highly qualified health professionals who carry out an adequate follow-up to avoid or reduce possible unwanted damage induced by ibogaine. It is important that, during the sessions, the instructions of the doctor in charge are followed, who must adequately inform the patient about the possible adverse effects and dispel their doubts in the event that there are any. The presence of nurses or caregivers is usually recommended after the end of the experience. Carrying out the intake in a hospital environment will ensure the presence of health professionals for proper follow-up.

Legal MDMA-Assisted Therapy Is Likely Within Next Couple Years — Photo by Pornpak Khunatorn/Getty Images

As it is a complex medical intervention, with physical and psychological effects, the use of ibogaine for detoxification requires, in addition to the presence of qualified doctors to provide the treatment, the support of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or psychotherapists. This is of great importance because not all patients manage to deal with the introspective experience produced by ibogaine, and may suffer episodes of anxiety and paranoia. Personalized follow-up by these professionals will reduce the side effects of ibogaine on the patient’s psyche and improve the intake experience.

Need For Therapeutic Follow-up After Session To Integrate Treatment And Avoid Relapses

The intake of ibogaine is an instance of a larger therapeutic process. It is for this reason that it is important to maintain the necessary aftercare to carry out the treatment successfully. The design of a care plan after the session constitutes an essential part of the treatment and must be monitored by the team of professionals in charge of it. Generally, it is recommended that the centers in which the treatment is applied offer a plan of continued care after the session or, at least, articulate and collaborate with other therapeutic centers in charge of offering this care.

Psychological support is a key factor in guaranteeing the success of treatment. During the session and the days that follow, patients usually undergo a process of considerable psychological changes and personal redefinition, which is why it is of great importance that they have the support of mental health professionals to gradually return to their daily lives.

Likewise, it is necessary that the post-session follow-up by the medical team focuses on avoiding relapses. It should be considered that once ingested, the tolerance to the substance that generated addiction in the patient tends to be much lower than before. This means that the usual doses that he was used to could have more severe effects on the body and even cause an overdose. Having a relapse does not mean that the therapeutic process itself has been useless; in some cases, professionals evaluate, the application of a second dose to improve the recovery process.

This article originally appeared on El Planteo and has been reposted with permission.

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addiction

Can Psychedelics Treat Addiction and Alcoholism?

Published

3 months ago

September 13, 2024

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Psychedelics, once associated primarily with counterculture and recreational drug use, are now being seriously studied for their therapeutic potential in treating drug addiction and alcoholism. Recent research has shown that substances like psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca may have profound benefits for individuals struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and substance use disorders (SUD). These compounds are being reconsidered not only for their ability to induce altered states of consciousness but also for their potential to address addictive behaviors and psychological trauma at the root of addiction.

Psilocybin’s Efficacy in Treating Alcohol Use Disorder

One groundbreaking study, conducted at New York University and Johns Hopkins University, demonstrated the potential of psilocybin in treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The researchers focused on individuals with severe AUD, administering two doses of psilocybin in conjunction with psychotherapy. The results were notable: participants reported a 50% reduction in heavy drinking days over an eight-month period, with some maintaining abstinence from alcohol even a year later.

The trial followed a double-blind, randomized approach and found that the therapeutic effects of psilocybin were superior to those observed with placebo treatments. Dr. Michael Bogenschutz, a lead researcher in the study, emphasized the importance of the psychedelic experience itself in breaking the cycle of addiction. Psilocybin appears to help patients break through entrenched mental patterns, often revealing deeper emotional connections and realizations that drive more meaningful behavior change.

How Psychedelics Influence the Brain to Combat Addiction

The mechanism behind the efficacy of psychedelics in treating addiction is thought to involve neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections. By interacting with serotonin 2A receptors, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and default mode network, psychedelics can enable profound shifts in perception and cognition. These altered states of consciousness allow individuals to confront underlying psychological issues, such as trauma or negative emotional patterns, which are often at the core of addictive behaviors.

Many individuals undergoing psychedelic-assisted therapy report experiencing a “reset” of their mental state, facilitating a more open mindset that helps them engage with therapy in a deeper, more effective way. This contrasts with traditional addiction treatments, such as methadone or buprenorphine, which primarily manage withdrawal symptoms but do not address the psychological components of addiction.

LSD and Its Potential in Addiction Treatment

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) has also shown promise in treating addiction, particularly alcoholism. Early studies from the 1950s to the 1970s suggested that LSD might help reduce alcohol dependency, but interest in this line of research waned due to regulatory crackdowns on psychedelic research. However, more recent studies have reignited interest in LSD’s therapeutic potential.

A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology reviewed data from six trials involving over 500 patients. It concluded that a single high dose of LSD, administered in a therapeutic setting, was associated with a significant reduction in alcohol consumption. The study found that LSD’s psychedelic effects could lead to lasting changes in personality traits, such as openness and emotional resilience, which are crucial for overcoming addiction.

Ayahuasca and Addiction Recovery

Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew containing DMT (dimethyltryptamine) and MAO inhibitors, has been the focus of recent studies examining its potential to treat addiction. Researchers have found that ayahuasca’s intense psychoactive properties, combined with its ability to facilitate introspection and emotional healing, may help individuals overcome opioid and stimulant addiction. A study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology noted that ayahuasca led to significant improvements in mental health and reductions in addictive behaviors.

Ayahuasca ceremonies, often conducted in a spiritual context, have been shown to promote healing through vivid and sometimes challenging visions. Participants often report gaining insights into the underlying causes of their addiction, leading to long-lasting psychological benefits.

Challenges in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

While the results of these studies are promising, the use of psychedelics in treating addiction is not without challenges. For one, the psychedelic experience itself can be unpredictable, and not all patients experience the profound mystical or emotional breakthroughs associated with positive outcomes. The effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted therapy appears to be linked to the quality of the therapeutic environment and the expertise of the facilitators, meaning that careful preparation and integration are key to success.

Moreover, while psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD do not appear to be physically addictive, their use must still be carefully regulated to prevent potential psychological risks, such as hallucinations, anxiety, or psychotic episodes in vulnerable individuals. Current research emphasizes the need for controlled settings where trained therapists can guide patients through their psychedelic experiences.

Ongoing Research and Future Directions

Given the promising early results, psychedelic research is entering a new phase, with larger clinical trials currently underway. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently allocated $2.4 million to explore the use of psychedelics in treating methamphetamine addiction, further solidifying the role of psychedelics in addiction therapy. Similarly, ongoing studies are looking into psilocybin’s potential to treat opioid addiction and cocaine dependence, conditions that have been notoriously difficult to treat with conventional methods.

As research progresses, it is likely that psilocybin, LSD, and other psychedelics will become more widely recognized as effective tools for addiction treatment. While more research is needed to fine-tune these therapies and better understand their long-term effects, early indications are that psychedelics could revolutionize addiction and alcoholism treatments in the coming decades.

Conclusion

Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca are emerging as potential breakthrough therapies for treating drug addiction and alcoholism. By promoting neuroplasticity and addressing the psychological roots of addiction, these substances offer an alternative to traditional addiction treatments, which often focus on managing symptoms rather than curing the disease. With ongoing research and increasing clinical trials, psychedelic-assisted therapy may become an essential tool in the fight against substance use disorders, offering hope to millions of people who struggle with addiction, such as alcoholism.

Sources

Johns Hopkins Medicine: Psychedelics in Addiction Treatment
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Research on Psychedelics
Frontiers in Pharmacology: Ayahuasca for Addiction Recovery
JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery

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addiction

The Evolving Opioid Crisis in Europe: Heroin and Synthetic Threats

Published

3 months ago

September 12, 2024

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The opioid crisis in Europe is growing in complexity, with heroin continuing to dominate the market while synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl and its analogs, emerge as potent new threats. The 2024 EU Drug Markets Report, released by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and Europol, provides a comprehensive analysis of the heroin and synthetic opioid market, detailing the health risks, evolving trafficking routes, and potential future challenges.

Heroin in Decline? Why Synthetic Opioids Pose a New Threat in Europe

Heroin’s Ongoing Impact in Europe

Heroin remains the most commonly used illicit opioid in Europe, with an estimated 1 million high-risk opioid users. The European heroin market is valued at over €5.2 billion annually, indicating the persistent demand for this drug. In 2021, EU countries seized 9.5 tonnes of heroin, the largest quantity in 20 years. These figures underscore the strong presence of heroin in Europe, despite the introduction of harm reduction programs aimed at curbing opioid use.

The health consequences of heroin use are severe. In 2021, opioids were responsible for three-quarters of Europe’s 6,000 drug-related overdose deaths, with heroin being a leading factor. Long-term users are aging, adding complexity to public health strategies, as older opioid users present with more chronic health problems.

Afghanistan’s Opium Ban: Future Implications for Heroin Supply

Nearly all heroin consumed in Europe is derived from opium produced in Afghanistan. However, Afghanistan’s opium production has seen a dramatic decline following the Taliban’s 2022 ban on poppy cultivation, which led to a 95% reduction in production by 2023. While the immediate impact on heroin availability in Europe has been minimal, the report warns that a sustained ban could lead to future heroin shortages. Such shortages could open the door for synthetic opioids to dominate the market.

The decline in Afghan opium cultivation from 233,000 hectares in 2022 to just 10,800 hectares in 2023 has raised concerns about the future of heroin availability in Europe. Should the Taliban continue to enforce the ban, experts believe the resulting heroin scarcity could increase the use of more potent and dangerous synthetic opioids, exacerbating the public health crisis.

The Rise of Synthetic Opioids: Fentanyl and its Analogues

Synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, are becoming more prevalent in the European drug market. These substances are far more potent than heroin, and even small doses can lead to fatal overdoses. The 2024 report highlights how these synthetic opioids are contributing to a growing number of overdose deaths and hospital emergencies across Europe. In countries such as Estonia and Sweden, fentanyl is responsible for a significant proportion of drug-related deaths.

Fentanyl analogs are particularly concerning because they can be mixed with other drugs like heroin or cocaine, often without the user’s knowledge. The increasing presence of these synthetic opioids is a major public health concern, as traditional harm reduction measures, such as naloxone distribution and needle exchange programs, are less effective against these more potent substances.

Changing Trafficking Routes and Criminal Networks

Traffickers are increasingly adapting their methods in response to heightened enforcement measures and geopolitical developments. The traditional Balkan route, which brings heroin through Turkey and Bulgaria into Europe, has seen increased enforcement and stricter border controls, prompting traffickers to shift towards alternative routes.

The Southern route is becoming more prominent, with significant heroin shipments passing through Iran and Pakistan before reaching Europe via major seaports. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a key transshipment hub for heroin, providing both logistical support and avenues for money laundering. Meanwhile, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has prompted criminal networks to modify their trafficking routes, further complicating law enforcement efforts.

Public Health and Harm Reduction Efforts

Harm reduction strategies have had some success in mitigating the impact of opioid use in Europe. Programs such as opioid substitution therapy (OST) and needle exchange have helped reduce the number of new users injecting heroin, thereby lowering the risks of HIV and hepatitis C transmission. However, the growing prevalence of synthetic opioids poses new challenges. These potent drugs often require stronger overdose prevention measures, such as fentanyl test strips and more widespread access to naloxone, an opioid antagonist used to reverse overdoses.

Additionally, the report notes the importance of expanding data collection and improving early warning systems to monitor emerging trends in opioid use and trafficking. These systems allow public health authorities and law enforcement to respond more quickly to new synthetic opioids entering the market.

Challenges in Treating Opioid Addiction

Treatment for opioid addiction, particularly heroin, is evolving. Europe’s aging population of opioid users presents new challenges, as older users are more likely to have complex medical conditions. Many long-term users require not just drug treatment but also social support and healthcare for chronic conditions related to long-term substance use. Furthermore, gender-specific issues are emerging, as women who use opioids face more barriers to accessing treatment and are more likely to present with co-occurring psychological or social issues.

Conclusion

The opioid crisis in Europe is evolving, with heroin still posing a significant threat to public health, while synthetic opioids like fentanyl are emerging as an even more dangerous force. The reduction in Afghan opium production and the shifting trafficking routes complicate the landscape further. To tackle this complex issue, Europe must continue to invest in harm reduction, international cooperation, and early warning systems to prevent more overdose deaths and manage the changing face of the opioid market. Without a coordinated response, Europe risks facing an even more devastating public health crisis in the coming years.

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Who Are Eating Dogs and Cats?

Published

3 months ago

September 11, 2024

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The fact that some people are eating dogs and cats is a highly sensitive topic that crosses cultural, social, and ethical boundaries. In many regions, these animals are consumed due to cultural traditions and necessity, while in other cases, drug-induced behavior may lead individuals to engage in extreme or unusual dietary practices. This article aims to explore the distinction between cultural norms and the desperate, erratic behaviors driven by substance abuse, focusing on the need for cultural sensitivity while addressing harmful behavior.

When Culture Meets Addiction: Who Is Eating Dogs and Cats?

Cultural Practices and the Consumption of Non-Traditional Animals

In some parts of Asia and Africa, the phenomena of eating dogs and cats has historical roots that are tied to both cultural traditions and the availability of resources. In these regions, the eating of non-traditional animals is a normalized practice and is not connected to drug-fueled behavior.

Cultural Normalcy: In regions such as South Korea, China, and Vietnam, dogs have historically been consumed as part of traditional cuisines. This practice is not driven by addiction or desperation but by cultural norms that view these animals as a food source rather than pets.
Food Scarcity: In some communities, especially in impoverished or rural areas, consuming non-traditional animals like dogs or cats is a practical response to food scarcity. The decision to eat these animals is based on survival rather than personal preference or altered judgment.

Drug-Induced Dietary Choices: When Addiction Leads to Extreme Behaviors

In contrast to cultural practices, there are cases where individuals under the influence of drugs engage in extreme or bizarre behaviors, such as eating dogs and cats… This behavior is driven by impaired judgment, psychosis, or desperation caused by addiction, and often occurs in isolated or marginalized communities.

Methamphetamine and Erratic Behavior: Meth users are known to exhibit extreme and irrational behaviors, including eating animals they wouldn’t normally consider food. Meth-induced psychosis can blur the lines between reality and hallucination, leading to bizarre dietary choices such as consuming pets or strays.
Desperation from Heroin Addiction: Heroin addicts, especially those living in extreme poverty, may consume non-traditional animals out of necessity. Chronic malnutrition and impaired judgment, combined with isolation from society, can drive addicts to make choices they wouldn’t otherwise consider.