PT 617 - Alan Davis - Psychedelic Research and Patient Safety at Ohio State & Exploring Ibogaine's Potential

Jul 24, 2025

In a deep dive into psychedelic research, Alan Davis, an Associate Professor at Ohio State University, discusses the evolving potential of Ibogaine, focusing on its therapeutic benefits for substance use disorders. He highlights the groundbreaking Iboga Patient Survey, emphasizing the necessity of rigorous, real-world safety data. Alan also tackles the challenges of clinical trials, the interplay between ethical practices and corporate interests, and the specific needs of veterans facing trauma. Their conversation is both informative and thought-provoking, shedding light on the future of psychedelic medicine.

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INSIGHT

Real-World Safety Data Accelerates Trials

Gathering real-world safety data on Ibogaine is essential to enable clinical trials and FDA approval.
This approach can accelerate research by leveraging existing patient experiences instead of recreating data.

INSIGHT

Ibogaine's Therapeutic Potential & Mechanisms

Ibogaine shows promise in reducing opioid withdrawal and craving, critical barriers to addiction recovery.
It may also improve cognitive function by reducing neuroinflammation, aiding traumatized individuals like veterans.

ADVICE

Joining Ibogaine Patient Survey

Anyone who has had an Ibogaine experience in any setting can participate in the survey to provide valuable safety data.
The survey is kept brief, averaging about five to fifteen minutes, to maximize accessibility and participation.

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In this episode of Psychedelics Today, Joe Moore sits down with Alan Davis, Associate Professor at Ohio State University, to explore the evolving landscape of Ibogaine research and its therapeutic potential.

Alan offers a deep dive into the Iboga Patient Survey, a groundbreaking initiative collecting real-world data on the safety and efficacy of Ibogaine—particularly for those struggling with substance use disorders and mental health challenges. The conversation sheds light on the need for rigorous, community-informed research that could pave the way toward FDA approval and increased access for patients, including veterans dealing with trauma.

They also discuss the complexities of clinical trials, the tension between state and federal regulations, and the growing influence of corporate interests in psychedelic research. Alan emphasizes the importance of ethical transparency, community collaboration, and maintaining scientific integrity as the field grows.

If you're curious about the intersection of psychedelic medicine, clinical research, and patient safety, this is a must-listen episode.

Topics Covered

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:53 – Reflecting on COVID-19's Psychological Impact
01:29 – Introducing the Iboga Patient Survey
01:46 – History and Goals of Ibogaine Research
02:41 – Challenges in Conducting Clinical Trials
03:14 – Importance of Real-World Safety Data
06:55 – Personal Interest in Ibogaine
08:56 – Veterans and Trauma: A Personal Connection
10:53 – Reintegration and Emotional Processing
15:29 – Survey Participation and Accessibility
18:25 – Building Partnerships and Overcoming Challenges
21:06 – Ensuring Safety and Transparency
31:49 – Community and Academic Collaboration
33:06 – Survey Design and Future Research Directions
36:50 – Momentum in Psychedelic Research
37:48 – State vs. Federal Regulation
39:23 – Challenges in Psychedelic Treatment
43:01 – Corporate Interests and Scientific Objectivity
47:20 – Ketamine and Collaborative Research
51:56 – Ibogaine Patient Survey
57:55 – Psychedelics and Pain Research
01:07:22 – Conclusion and Future Directions