DMT vs Ibogaine
A side-by-side research comparison of DMT and Ibogaine across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | DMT | Ibogaine |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine | Ibogaine (from Tabernanthe iboga) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (research compound) |
| Mechanism | Activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, producing vivid changes in perception. When taken orally in ayahuasca, an MAO inhibitor is needed so it is not broken down too quickly. | 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 weight | 188.27 g/mol | 310.43 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~10-15 minutes | ~4-7 hours (ibogaine); noribogaine much longer |
| Bioavailability | Inhaled/injected (very short); oral only with an MAO inhibitor | Oral |
| Typical dose | Controlled dosing in clinical studies | Weight-based, given in specialized clinics |
| Frequency | One to a few supervised sessions | Usually a single session |
| Route | Inhalation or IV in research; oral as ayahuasca | Oral, under medical and cardiac monitoring |
DMT reported benefits
- Studied for depression
- Very short experience aids research design
- Used to study consciousness
- Long traditional use as ayahuasca
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
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.