Ibogaine vs MDMA
A side-by-side research comparison of Ibogaine and MDMA across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ibogaine | MDMA |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ibogaine (from Tabernanthe iboga) | 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy for PTSD) |
| 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. | Triggers large releases of serotonin (and to a lesser extent dopamine and norepinephrine) and increases oxytocin, prolactin and cortisol. This produces feelings of trust, openness and emotional closeness that support psychotherapy. |
| Molecular weight | 310.43 g/mol | 193.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | ~4-7 hours (ibogaine); noribogaine much longer | ~7-9 hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral, high |
| Typical dose | Weight-based, given in specialized clinics | 75-125 mg (often with an optional supplemental half-dose) |
| Frequency | Usually a single session | A small number of monthly sessions |
| Route | Oral, under medical and cardiac monitoring | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
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
MDMA reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant PTSD
- Lowers fear response during trauma processing
- Increases trust and emotional openness
- Strong Phase 3 trial results from MAPS
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.