ANÁLISE DO USO DA IBOGAÍNA NO TRATAMENTO DE TRANSTORNOS POR USO DE SUBSTÂNCIAS: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA

Abstract

This work presents an analysis of the effectiveness of ibogaine in the treatment of substance use disorder, focusing on chemical dependency. Ibogaine is a hallucinogenic indole alkaloid and is the main active ingredient in the root of iboga, a species of shrub native to the African continent. Its potential in treating substance use disorders has gained increasing attention in recent decades, driven by preliminary studies suggesting its benefits in treating substance use disorder. OBJECTIVES: To review the evidence related to the use of ibogaine in the context of drug addiction, in relation to efficacy and related side effects and risks. METHODOLOGY: descriptive character, through an integrative literature review. Data were collected from databases (Pubmed, Virtual Health Library and Cochrane Library) using “substance-related disorders” descriptors; “ibogaine”; “therapy” searching for research published in the last 5 years that addressed evidence on the use of ibogaine in the treatment of chemical dependency in humans. Narrative reviews, abstracts and animal studies were excluded. RESULTS: 38 articles were found, of which 8 articles were analyzed. Quantitative and qualitative analysis revealed improvements in symptoms of depression, withdrawal and dependence severity, as well as positive impacts on individuals' social and legal conditions in the short and medium term. However, the temporal limitation of studies of up to 12 months makes it difficult to assess the durability of these benefits. Adverse events, such as cardiac arrhythmias, and deaths associated with the use of ibogaine have been described. Despite the promising results, the search for more solid evidence remains a priority. The need for specific clinical trials, consistent methodologies and further investigation are highlighted to support the use of ibogaine in the treatment of substance use disorders.