Actively Recruiting
Mapping Ibogaine Neural Dynamics in Opioid Use Disorder
Led by University of California, Irvine · Updated on 2026-05-01
20
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
85 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This study aims to understand how ibogaine treatment may change brain activity and symptoms in people with moderate-severe opioid use disorder (OUD), as defined by the DSM-5. Ibogaine is a plant-derived compound that some studies suggest can reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal. Participants in this study will already be independently scheduled to receive legal ibogaine treatment at a licensed clinic outside of the U.S. The University of California, Irvine (UCI) research team will not provide the treatment but will conduct brain imaging, administer psychometric questionnaires, and obtain urine samples throughout the course of this study. UCI does not sponsor or financially support the ibogaine treatment in any way; all treatment costs are the sole responsibility of the participant. The main goal is to see if ibogaine changes brain function as assessed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and electroencephalography (EEG). MRI/MRS will measure brain activity when participants view opioid-related images, brain connectivity at rest, and levels of brain chemicals involved in craving and substance use. EEG will measure brain wave activity. MRI/MRS/EEG will be administered across 3 study time points. In addition, participants will complete psychometric surveys related to opioid craving, withdrawal symptoms, mood, anxiety, pain, and quality of life, along with urine tests to monitor substance use and screen for pregnancy. The investigators hypothesize that after ibogaine treatment, participants will show reduced brain responses to opioid cues, changes in brain connectivity and chemistry, and improvements in self-reported cravings and other symptoms. This information may help researchers better understand how ibogaine works in the brain and whether it could play a role in future treatments for OUD.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Mapping Ibogaine Neural Dynamics in Opioid Use Disorder
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Adults aged 21-65 with confirmed moderate to severe opioid use disorder by DSM-5 criteria (4 or more symptoms).
- Independently scheduled to receive ibogaine treatment at Ambio Life Sciences in Tijuana, Mexico.
- Able to undergo MRI and EEG procedures at University of California, Irvine for three sessions.
- Able to complete psychometric surveys at each study time point.
- Able to provide urine samples at all three scanning sessions and at local labs for 3- and 6-month follow-ups.
- Capable of giving written informed consent.
- Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing English.
You will not qualify if you...
- Any known past procedures, devices, or conditions that prevent MRI, including claustrophobia.
- Use of psychedelic substances within 3 months before screening.
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (type I or II), or borderline personality disorder.
- Use of ibogaine within 6 months before screening.
- Pregnant or nursing; participants who become pregnant during the study will be withdrawn.
- Diagnosis of epilepsy or history of seizures.
- Other contraindications to MRI/EEG such as brain surgical clips, staples, metal implants, or certain dental materials.
- Inability to complete MRI/EEG sessions or follow-up visits.
- Inability or unwillingness to provide written informed consent.
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
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Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, University of California, Irvine
Irvine, California, United States, 92617
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
R
Richard E Harris, PhD
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
1
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