Legal status of ibogaine by country

Legal status of ibogaine by country refers to the various laws and regulations that govern the use, possession, and distribution of ibogaine, a naturally occurring psychoactive substance found in plants in the Apocynaceae family. The legal status of ibogaine varies greatly from country to country, ranging from completely legal to strictly prohibited.

Overview

Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid derived from the root bark of the African shrub Tabernanthe iboga. It has been used traditionally in Central Africa for spiritual and healing purposes. In the modern world, it has gained attention for its potential to treat addiction, particularly to opioids. However, its legal status varies widely around the world, reflecting differing attitudes towards drug policy and harm reduction.

Legal Status by Country

United States

In the United States, ibogaine is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means it is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess ibogaine. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved ibogaine for any medical use.

Canada

In Canada, ibogaine is not specifically listed as a controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. However, it is considered a prescription drug and cannot be sold without a license from Health Canada.

Mexico

In Mexico, ibogaine is not controlled and is used by a number of addiction treatment centers.

Brazil

In Brazil, ibogaine was approved for the treatment of addiction in 2016. It is regulated as a prescription medication.

New Zealand

In New Zealand, ibogaine was reclassified as a prescription medicine in 2009.

South Africa

In South Africa, ibogaine is not a controlled substance and is used in addiction treatment.

See Also

• Drug policy
• Psychedelic therapy
• Harm reduction