Frequently Asked Questions

What is your detox program's success rate?

Ibogaine detoxification therapy is very successful in significantly preventing painful and difficult withdrawal symptoms from those who are chemically dependent. It can also help to reduce cravings and improve energy, mood and outlook on life for a period of time afterwards.

It should be noted however that we consider our program to be a first step in long term recovery as we are not a long term treatment program. While we plan on eventually opening a long term treatment facility, the 5 day program that we offer is geared towards helping to prevent the withdrawal syndrome and/or symptoms associated with discontinuing drugs that cause chemical dependence and provides a safe venue in which emotional, psychological, physical and spiritual healing can begin.

We define success based on reported improvements in quality of life, personal outlook and health, not just abstinence.

Our program is focused on reducing or preventing the potential harms associated with substance abuse. When defining what helps our clients live healthier lives we look at not only prolonged periods of abstinence, but also reduced frequency of use, reductions in problematic forms of use, changes to less destructive drugs and/or habits, positive changes in self esteem, increased beneficial communication with peers, family and other support networks, employment and other indicators of health. We understand that any and all of these factors can contribute greatly to increased health and quality of life.

We highly recommend that steps are taken beyond participation in ibogaine-assisted detoxification to continue working towards long term recovery and/or abstinence goals. This may include participation in some form of aftercare or support program, long-term treatment, and/or gaining valuable skills that can help you in your life. Ibogaine therapy is not a miracle cure for addiction. It is a potent tool in getting to a state where long term recovery can begin. By recognizing that you have the innate ability to heal yourself and seeking out assistance in areas that you need help, you are creating a path to a successful future.

Why is the program so expensive?

We offer our programs on a non-profit, fee-for-services basis. Though we are a non-profit organisation, as of yet we do not have any outside sources of funding. We are offering our programs at-cost whilst striving to provide quality care in a safe and supportive environment. We understand that the cost is prohibitive for many people struggling with addictions (as well as those seeking healing of other issues through psychospiritual therapy) and are working towards generating credible data and a significant body of evidence that ibogaine therapy is a legitimate and valuable option that is worthy of funding and subsidization.

Our budget is as cost effective as we can make it. It includes ibogaine, facility rental (a secluded, peaceful retreat-style setting), utility and phone bills, screening, medical monitoring, staffing 24 hrs/day, equipment costs, medical supplies, quality food & supplements, administrative costs, website, various materials & supplies, relapse prevention counseling, massage therapy, acupuncture, nutritional consultation, herbalist/homeopathic consultation, 3 follow-up counseling sessions, plus cleaning, accounting, vehicle passenger insurance, gas, lawyer consultation fees, banking fees, taxes (12% HST), etc... On top of all this, countless volunteer hours and donated resources have gone into this project that are not accounted for in the cost nor ever charged to you. There is a community here that cares about your healing process and we are dedicated to offering the best program that we can regardless of financial limits.

You can help bring our costs down by speaking up about the potential benefits of ibogaine therapy, by helping us to find donors & people skilled in fundraising and/or by volunteering with us or other organisations such as the Global Ibogaine Therapy Alliance that are dedicated to legitmizing ibogaine therapy.

Program costs can be found here: Program Costs

Do you have a payment plan option?

Yes, Canadian residents may apply for financing and a payment plan through Medicard Canada. Please contact us for more info. (This service is not yet available to residents of the USA or elsewhere)

What is the facility like?

Photos of our facility can be seen in our gallery.

Our facility is a comfortable setting that is staffed 24 hrs/day and is highly private. We generally only schedule one individual per week/session but can also schedule couples. Each person has their own room plus access to the rest of the facility including common rooms, meditation room, kitchen, library, outdoor gardens, etc.. All amenities are provided plus full, mostly organic meals.

What happens during the detox therapy?

Does Ibogaine have any side effects?

Side effects typically associated with doses of Ibogaine administered for the prevention of significant withdrawal symptoms may include: ataxia (loss of muscle coordination), photosensitivity (sensitivity to light), nausea, and slight changes in blood pressure. These effects subside 24-48 hours after the ingestion of Ibogaine. These side effects are not the same as the withdrawal symptoms associated with chemical dependence which should be significantly prevented through the action of the Ibogaine.

Is Ibogaine neurotoxic?

Research demonstrates that ibogaine is not neurotoxic when administered in the therapeutic dose range (from 1-22 mgs/k). Please see the information and published research regarding neurotoxicity on the Ibogaine Dossier: www.ibogaine.org/neurotoxicity and www.ibogaine.org/abstracts

What is the dosage?

The dosage used for prevention of withdrawal symptoms associated with chemical dependence is within a range of 16-22 mgs of Ibogaine HCL per kg of body weight taking into account factors such as severity of addiction, the substance/s from which the participant is detoxifying from and individual metabolism. For example: a significantly high dose methadone dependence may require a dose of Ibogaine in the 19-20 mg range with a possible need for an additional small supplemental dose a few days later. Those detoxing from other substances generally require a lesser dose of ibogaine.

The dosage for a psychotherapeutic session is within a range of 10-17 mgs/k.

Do you sell ibogaine?

No. It is only offered as part of our therapy programs in a safe, supportive and monitored therapeutic setting. See below.

Should I consider taking Ibogaine on my own?

Ibogaine is a potent psychoactive substance. There are a number of reasons why taking it alone can be dangerous. It has potential side effects that make it extremely difficult to take care of oneself without assistance. Monitoring of pulse, blood pressure, temperature and adequate hydration is extremely important. In case of a medical emergency there must be someone present who is dedicated to keeping you out of harm and knowledgeable enough to communicate accurately and promptly with emergency medical personnel and/or the local hospital.

Adverse events can occur if mixed concurrently (together) with other drugs (especially opiates, stimulants and amphetamines) as it potentiates (makes stronger) these to the point of a possibly fatal overdose. It is also contraindicated in combination with many medications, prescriptions, alcohol, over the counter medicines, supplements and even some foods or drinks such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, beta blockers, qt-prolonging drugs, herbs like goldenseal, st. johns wort, asafoetida, even grapefruit and tonic water.

Its psychoactive properties may also precipitate intense psychological, emotional or spiritual experiences for which support from a knowledgeable and compassionate caregiver is needed.

There is also the question of supply from unknown sources. Can you be sure of what you are purchasing?

There is also the question of dosing and potency, many websites and individuals have posted online information that is misleading, innaccurate and possibly even dangerous.

These are only some factors to consider as everyone's needs and situation will differ. It is important to know that every substance/drug affects people in different ways at different times.

The most important thing to do is to educate yourself as much as possible about it before making a decision. There are various resources of information available, see: The Ibogaine Dossier and the Manual for Ibogaine Therapy to begin with. Other Internet sites may be found on our links page and there are also books, discussion forums, news articles, films and listserves such as the Ibogaine List on Mindvox.

It is also important to check out other options for recovery as you may decide that Ibogaine is not right for you. In any case, researching other methods may be more helpful in the long run, as it can help to make an informed decision and also aid in the creation of a personalized ongoing recovery plan.