Ibogaine Safety & Medical Screening

Medical Risk Management

Ibogaine is a powerful psychoactive compound with significant effects on both neurological and physiological systems. With that power comes a clear obligation to assess risk carefully, screen appropriately, and operate within defined medical boundaries.

Certain medical conditions, medications, or physiological factors may increase risk. These risks are not speculative. They are known, measurable, and manageable when proper screening, monitoring, and clinical protocols are in place.

At Anzelmo, safety is foundational. Every participant undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation prior to acceptance, including laboratory testing, cardiac screening (ECG), medication review, and physical assessment. This process ensures suitability and establishes a clear baseline before any experience begins.

During the retreat, medical oversight is continuous and unobtrusive. Cardiac monitoring, attentive supervision, and on-site readiness are maintained throughout the active phase. This allows the experience to unfold without unnecessary interference while ensuring that safety remains the primary priority at all times.

Informed Consent

Understanding the effects and risks of ibogaine requires informed consent and active participation. Ibogaine is not appropriate for everyone, and certain conditions or circumstances may increase risk.

Factors that may contribute to elevated risk include:

• Pre-existing cardiac conditions
• Seizure risk associated with acute withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines
• Concurrent use of substances, including opioids, prior to or during the ibogaine experience

When conducted with proper medical screening, monitoring, and oversight, serious complications are uncommon. However, there have been documented fatalities in both clinical and non-clinical settings over the years.

These cases underscore the importance of transparency, comprehensive medical evaluation, careful supervision, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Informed consent is not a formality—it is a shared responsibility that ensures clarity, alignment, and appropriate risk management.

Exclusion Criteria

Participation is evaluated in alignment with established international safety standards. Each individual is reviewed carefully to determine whether medical or psychological factors may increase risk beyond acceptable thresholds.

Participation may be declined in cases involving:

• Certain psychiatric conditions
• Pre-existing cardiac conditions
• Significant respiratory disorders
• Severe chronic gastrointestinal conditions

Other factors may not automatically preclude participation, but may require additional preparation, monitoring, or medical clearance, including:

• Abnormal laboratory findings
• Impaired kidney or liver function
• Active infections or unresolved medical issues
• Recent major surgery (within the past six months)
• Pregnancy

Transparency & Medical Accuracy

Ibogaine carries known physiological risks, particularly related to cardiac function, which is why thorough screening is essential. Full transparency during the medical review process is required to ensure safety and appropriate decision-making.

All medical questions exist for one purpose: to assess suitability and reduce risk. They are not diagnostic, judgmental, or invasive, but necessary safeguards to ensure that participation is aligned with individual health considerations.