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4-HO-MET vs Ibogaine

A side-by-side research comparison of 4-HO-MET and Ibogaine across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.

Comparison table

Attribute4-HO-METIbogaine
Full name4-Hydroxy-N-methyl-N-ethyltryptamine (metocin)Ibogaine (from Tabernanthe iboga)
CategoryPsychedelicsPsychedelics
StatusSchedule I (research compound)Schedule I (research compound)
MechanismActivates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, similar to other classic tryptamine psychedelics.Acts on multiple systems at once, including serotonin and opioid receptors, NMDA receptors and nicotinic receptors. Its active metabolite noribogaine is thought to drive much of the lasting anti-addiction effect.
Molecular weight218.30 g/mol310.43 g/mol
Half-life~2 hours~4-7 hours (ibogaine); noribogaine much longer
BioavailabilityOralOral
Typical doseVaries by individual and settingWeight-based, given in specialized clinics
FrequencyOccasionalUsually a single session
RouteOralOral, under medical and cardiac monitoring

4-HO-MET reported benefits

  • Gentle, visual experience
  • Related to psilocin
  • Studied as a research psychedelic
  • Lower body load reported

Ibogaine reported benefits

  • Studied for opioid use disorder
  • Can reduce withdrawal symptoms quickly
  • May lower cravings after a single session
  • Investigated for traumatic brain injury (with magnesium) in veterans

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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.