Ibogaine vs MDA
A side-by-side research comparison of Ibogaine and MDA across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ibogaine | MDA |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ibogaine (from Tabernanthe iboga) | 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (sass) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (research compound) |
| Mechanism | 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. | Releases serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine and has direct serotonin receptor activity, giving a mix of empathogenic and psychedelic effects. |
| Molecular weight | 310.43 g/mol | 179.22 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~4-7 hours (ibogaine); noribogaine much longer | ~6-8 hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | Weight-based, given in specialized clinics | Varies by individual and setting |
| Frequency | Usually a single session | Occasional |
| Route | Oral, under medical and cardiac monitoring | Oral |
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
MDA reported benefits
- More visual than MDMA
- Empathogen-psychedelic blend
- Longer-lasting
- Historic research compound
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.