Health Canada has received a report of serious adverse reactions – including abnormal heart rhythms – associated with the ingestion of ibogaine. This natural ingredient, which originates from the root bark of an African shrub, has previously been used in the treatment of drug addiction.
Currently, there are no authorized products in Canada that contain this substance. Because of this, Health Canada recently seized ibogaine-filled goods from Quebec’s Phytostan Enterprise Inc, including “Remogen,” “Ibo + Plus,” “Endabuse” and “Iboga.” The distributor has now agreed to stop selling and importing these products.
The government is also working with the Canada Border Services Agency to prevent the future importation of these supplements, and is closely monitoring the issue.
Internationally, reported adverse reactions to ibogaine include respiratory arrest, cardiac problems, symptoms related to psychiatric and metabolic dysfunction, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and even death. If you have used any of these products and have concerns about your health, contact your healthcare practitioner or report them to Health Canada here.