Sustained abstinence in severe ketamine use disorder following ibogaine treatment case report - Scorecard - MDSpire

Long-term Abstinence Achieved in Severe Ketamine Use Disorder After Ibogaine Intervention: A Case Study

  • By

  • Sergio R. Pérez Rosal

  • Sonya C. Faber

  • Markus Backmund

  • July 20, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Long-term Abstinence Achieved in Severe Ketamine Use Disorder After Ibogaine Intervention: A Case Study

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionSevere Ketamine Use Disorder
Key MechanismsIbogaine's NMDA antagonism, kappa opioid receptor agonism, and serotonin transporter inhibition.
Target PopulationIndividuals with severe polysubstance dependence, including ketamine, cocaine, and alcohol.
Care SettingStructured residential treatment program.

Key Highlights

  • Patient achieved immediate cessation of cravings for all substances post-ibogaine treatment.
  • Sustained abstinence documented over 17 months with serial toxicology and psychometric assessments.
  • Significant improvements in depression and quality of life metrics were observed.
  • Ibogaine's unique pharmacology may facilitate long-term behavioral changes.
  • First longitudinally documented case of sustained abstinence in severe ketamine use disorder following ibogaine treatment.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assessment of substance use disorders, including ketamine dependence and comorbid psychiatric conditions.

Management

  • Consider ibogaine-assisted treatment within a structured program for severe ketamine use disorder.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Continuous medical and ECG monitoring during ibogaine administration.

Risks

  • Potential safety risks associated with ibogaine, including QT-interval prolongation and neurotoxicity.

Patient & Prescribing Data

30-year-old male with a five-year history of severe polysubstance dependence.

Ibogaine treatment involved an 800 mg flood dose followed by booster doses, leading to significant clinical improvements.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Implement structured treatment programs for substance use disorders.
  • Utilize continuous monitoring during ibogaine administration to mitigate risks.
  • Incorporate psychosocial support alongside pharmacological interventions.

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