Bufotenin vs Ibogaine
A side-by-side research comparison of Bufotenin and Ibogaine across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Bufotenin | Ibogaine |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | 5-Hydroxy-DMT | Ibogaine (from Tabernanthe iboga) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Schedule I (research compound) | Schedule I (research compound) |
| Mechanism | Activates serotonin receptors; has strong peripheral cardiovascular effects in addition to central effects. | 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. |
| Molecular weight | 204.27 g/mol | 310.43 g/mol |
| Half-life | Short | ~4-7 hours (ibogaine); noribogaine much longer |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | Varies by individual and setting | Weight-based, given in specialized clinics |
| Frequency | Occasional | Usually a single session |
| Route | Insufflated (snuff) or injected | Oral, under medical and cardiac monitoring |
Bufotenin reported benefits
- Found in traditional snuffs (yopo)
- Closely related to DMT
- Studied in ethnobotany
- Natural tryptamine
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
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.