Psychoactive plant derivatives (ayahuasca, ibogaine, kratom) and their application in opioid withdrawal and use disorder - a narrative review.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review synthesizing preclinical and observational studies without systematic methodology.
PubMed 37199191 · doi:10.1080/10550887.2023.2195777
What was done
This narrative review evaluated literature from 2012 to 2022 on the mechanisms of action, toxicities, and applications of psychoactive plant derivatives (ayahuasca, ibogaine, and kratom) used for self-treating opioid withdrawal and opioid use disorder.
What was found
The abstract provides no numerical data. The authors note that these substances may exert efficacy via unique pharmacodynamic properties, ingestion rituals, and increased neuroplasticity, though the existing literature is limited to animal research and small observational human studies.
Why it matters
As individuals increasingly turn to alternative psychoactive botanicals to self-treat opioid dependence, this review outlines the biological mechanisms and highlights the clinical knowledge gap facing healthcare providers.
Limits
The paper is a non-systematic narrative review. The underlying evidence base consists primarily of animal studies and small observational series rather than well-controlled, randomized clinical trials.
Cited by
- supports Ibogaine is used to break the cycle of addiction.