Rewiring Movement—Ibogaine’s Breakthrough for Parkinson’s Disease

How a Psychedelic May Reverse What Medicine Thought Irreversible

Brett Favre, legendary NFL quarterback, received a Parkinson’s diagnosis in early 2024. Specialists believe his symptoms, including reduced mobility in his dominant arm, may stem from repetitive brain trauma over his 20-year career. After receiving ibogaine treatment, Favre reported: “Since coming to Ambio, I’ve felt a real shift, especially in my sleep and energy. For athletes facing long-term effects from their careers, ibogaine is something worth looking into.”

This isn’t just an athlete’s testimonial. It’s a glimpse into what may be the most exciting frontier in Parkinson’s research—and a potential revolution in how we approach neurodegenerative disease.

The Parkinson’s Crisis

Over 55 million people worldwide are affected by neurodegenerative diseases, with Parkinson’s recognized as the second most common after Alzheimer’s. In the United States alone, over 1 million people have Parkinson’s disease, a figure projected to increase by 60% within two decades.

Parkinson’s disease arises from the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the mid-brain, specifically in the substantia nigra. This triggers progressive symptoms: tremors, muscle rigidity, speech impairments, poor balance, bradykinesia (slowed movement), and postural instability. But the devastation extends beyond motor symptoms—cognitive and mood disorders like dementia and depression frequently accompany the disease.

Current treatments offer symptomatic relief at best. Levodopa, the gold standard medication, helps manage symptoms but comes with significant side effects and doesn’t halt the disease’s progression. Over time, patients require higher doses to achieve the same effect, leading to increased complications. Deep brain stimulation offers another option, but it’s invasive, expensive, and not suitable for everyone.

The GDNF Connection

Enter glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF)—a protein that supports the survival and growth of dopamine-producing neurons. Research shows GDNF can improve the recovery of dopaminergic neurons and lead to improvement of Parkinson’s symptoms.

The challenge? Previous methods to increase GDNF expression involved complex procedures like gene therapy and direct brain infusions. These invasive approaches showed mixed results and remained inaccessible to most patients.

But ibogaine has been shown to increase GDNF levels in studies done on animals. By increasing GDNF levels, ibogaine may promote the brain’s ability to regenerate dopaminergic fibers, which could improve symptoms by repairing damaged neurons. Columbia University researchers are exploring whether ibogaine could provide a safer and more convenient means to enhance GDNF production in the brain.

The Clinical Evidence

The world’s first clinical ibogaine program for neurodegenerative conditions launched in February 2025, and the initial results are compelling. Ambio Life Sciences soft-launched its Neuroregenerative Program, which has supported 30 patients to date with Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, essential tremor, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and ALS.

In one documented case study of 30 Parkinson’s patients undergoing a 14-day ibogaine therapy program at MindScape Retreat, the outcomes were remarkable. By the end of the retreat, average Parkinson’s severity was reduced by 70%. A quarter of patients who continued with maintenance microdoses extended their gains or preserved them over months.

These outcomes far exceed what would be expected from standard symptomatic treatments over the same timeframe, suggesting that ibogaine therapy might address the underlying neurodegenerative processes in Parkinson’s.

The Rapid Response

One of the most striking features is the speed of improvement. Early improvements by days 3-4 showed over 50% symptom reduction, implying that ibogaine quickly enhanced dopaminergic function. Ibogaine and its metabolite noribogaine can acutely increase dopamine availability and stabilize firing in dopamine pathways.

Lyndsey Ryan, chief therapy officer of Ambio, describes the clinical observations: “The relief some patients are reporting so far is motivating, including improvements in eyesight, mobility, and neuropathic pain.” Patients report improvements in both motor symptoms (tremor reduction, enhanced mobility, improved rigidity) and non-motor symptoms (better sleep, reduced anxiety, improved mood).

The Multi-System Approach

Ibogaine’s effectiveness for Parkinson’s appears to stem from its action across multiple systems. It modulates the brain’s dopamine system, potentially increasing dopamine levels crucial for motivation, pleasure, and reward processing. This makes it particularly effective not just for addiction but for neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s.

By resetting dopamine pathways, ibogaine helps reduce motor symptoms while addressing the psychological and cognitive aspects of the disease. The compound also demonstrates neuroprotective properties, potentially slowing or even reversing disease progression—something conventional treatments cannot claim.

Noribogaine’s Extended Benefits

A crucial component of ibogaine’s effectiveness is its metabolite, noribogaine. After initial ibogaine treatment, noribogaine remains in the body for several months, continuing to work on the brain’s neurochemistry. Noribogaine binds to the same receptors as dopamine but without producing euphoric effects, helping to prevent symptom recurrence and supporting long-term relief.

This extended action helps maintain neurochemical stability and support sustained symptom improvement, creating a therapeutic window that extends far beyond the initial treatment.

The Protocol Evolution

Ambio’s protocol for Parkinson’s patients differs from standard ibogaine treatment. It uses an optimized “loading dose” of ibogaine, ideal for people with physical challenges or age-related concerns, as a precursor to extended microdosing. Patients are treated in accessible facilities with medical staff present throughout, and supportive physiotherapy helps explore subtle changes in the body’s motility and mobility.

After therapeutic dosing, patients take ibogaine in very small doses (microdoses) which may have less intense psychoactive effects while maintaining neurological benefits. This approach is designed to honor the complexity of chronic illness and mitigate treatment challenges.

The Research Trajectory

Ambio is conducting preclinical research in partnership with Dalhousie University, supported by a grant from Mitacs, a Canadian innovation accelerator. Researchers aim to examine ibogaine’s effect on neuroinflammatory biomarkers and disease models for Parkinson’s, MS, and stroke.

Meanwhile, a pharmaceutical version of ibogaine, CKBR-12, is under evaluation for treating Parkinson’s disease at partner institutes in Mexico. Early clinical trials have shown promising results in improving motor and non-motor symptoms, significantly enhancing patients’ quality of life. The rapid improvements observed have led to the filing of provisional patent applications for methods that rapidly reduce Parkinson’s symptoms.

Hope Where Hope Was Lost

At Iboga Wellness Institute, we recognize that Parkinson’s patients have long been told their condition is irreversible, that the best they can hope for is slowing decline. The emerging research on ibogaine challenges this narrative fundamentally.

We’re not claiming ibogaine is a cure—the research is too early, the mechanisms too complex, the individual responses too variable. But we are witnessing something unprecedented: measurable improvements in a condition previously considered only progressive. The possibility of neuroregeneration where we thought only degeneration was possible.

For the millions affected by Parkinson’s worldwide, ibogaine may offer not just symptom management, but genuine hope.

Similar Insights

Post-Treatment Days: Integration & New Patterns The days after ibogaine treatment are critical. Your brain is in a state of heightened neuroplasticity—heightened learning and healing capacity. We use this time to:

  • Process what came up during treatment with daily therapy sessions
  • Learn new coping skills to replace old survival patterns
  • Address any remaining emotional material
  • Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques
  • Begin rebuilding your relationship with yourself
  • Connect with other people going through similar healing (if you choose)
  • Create a detailed plan for continuing your healing at home

Days 3-4: The Healing Experience Ibogaine therapy for psychological healing is profound and often life-changing. Here’s what happens:

  • You receive ibogaine in a safe, peaceful setting with medical staff present
  • The experience typically lasts 4-12 hours, during which you’re lying comfortably with eyes closed
  • You’ll wear an eye mask and headphones with music specifically designed to guide the ibogaine journey to its deepest healing potential
  • Many people report reviewing their life experiences from a new perspective, gaining the freedom to reframe old narratives
  • Traumatic memories often surface, but without the overwhelming emotional charge
  • Deep insights about patterns, relationships, and self-worth emerge naturally
  • A trained therapist is present to support you through difficult moments
  • Medical monitoring continues throughout to ensure physical safety
  • Many patients discover or reconnect with their spirituality during this process, experiencing a profound sense of connection—whether to God, universal consciousness, or something larger than themselves

What patients describe:

“I saw my trauma, but it didn’t destroy me this time.”
“I forgave myself for things I’ve carried for 20 years.”
“I understood why I’ve been the way I’ve been.”
“For the first time, I felt peace.”

Days 1-2: Building Trust & Understanding Before any treatment, we need to understand your story and what you’re carrying. This phase includes:

  • In-depth sessions with our licensed therapist
  • Review of your trauma history in a safe, confidential, judgment-free environment
  • Assessment of current symptoms and how they impact your life
  • Medical clearance to ensure treatment safety
  • Preparation for the ibogaine experience with an ibogaine workbook designed by our professionals
  • Education about what to expect, how to get the most from treatment, and what the experience feels like

This isn’t about forcing you to relive trauma—it’s about understanding what we’re helping you heal. We move at your pace, with compassion and respect for your journey.

Neurological Rehabilitation:

  • Daily physical therapy sessions to retrain movement patterns and restore function
  • Occupational therapy to help you relearn daily activities with your improved mobility and reduced pain
  • Cognitive exercises to strengthen memory, focus, and mental clarity
  • Movement workshops designed to “lock in” your neurological gains
  • Personalized home exercise plans you can continue after leaving

Holistic Healing Support:

  • Therapeutic massage (2-3 sessions per week) to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and support your body’s healing
  • Aqua therapy for gentle, low-impact movement that rebuilds strength without strain
  • Adapted yoga to improve flexibility, balance, and body awareness
  • Meditation and breathwork to regulate your nervous system and reduce pain signals
  • Hypnotherapy for pain management and progressive muscle relaxation
  • Sound healing sessions to promote deep relaxation and cellular healing
  • Nutrition counseling to optimize your diet for brain health and inflammation reduction

Integration Sessions:

  • One-on-one counseling to process your experience and prepare for life after treatment
  • Education about maintaining your improvements long-term
  • Development of your personalized aftercare plan with specific protocols for your condition
  • Training in self-care techniques you can use at home
  • Connection with our alumni community for ongoing peer support

What Happens:

  • You’ll receive ibogaine in carefully calibrated stages, customized to your specific condition and body chemistry
  • The experience is introspective and often deeply reflective—many patients describe profound insights about their condition and healing
  • Our medical team monitors your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and vital signs continuously throughout the entire process
  • You’re never alone—medical staff and support personnel are with you around the clock, ensuring your safety and comfort
  • Most patients begin noticing symptom improvements within 24-48 hours of treatment

Your Comfort Matters:

  • Private, peaceful recovery room designed for healing
  • 24/7 access to medical staff and emotional support
  • Nutritious meals and hydration tailored to your needs
  • A safe, supportive environment where you can focus entirely on healing

Before treatment begins, we need to understand exactly what’s happening in your body and brain. Our medical team conducts:

  • Heart screening (EKG and cardiac evaluation)
  • Movement and function assessment
  • Pain and symptom mapping
  • Blood work to check overall health
  • Review of all current medications and treatments

We use this information to design your personalized treatment protocol—the right dose, the right timing, the right support therapies. Important: If any test results require additional caution or monitoring, we have the option to begin with micro-dosing protocols on Day 2, ensuring the safest possible approach for your unique situation.

You’ll wake up after treatment feeling different. Most people describe an absence of withdrawal symptoms (or minor, manageable ones), dramatically reduced cravings, mental clarity they haven’t felt in years, and physical energy returning. Your brain enters a window of heightened neuroplasticity—a critical period when new patterns can take root. We maximize this opportunity with:

  • Daily medical monitoring with physician check-ins to ensure continued stability and assess how you’re feeling physically and mentally
  • Individual therapy sessions to process what came up during treatment, understand the insights you gained, and begin emotional healing
  • Addiction counseling to help you understand your triggers and patterns, and build practical relapse prevention skills
  • Group discussions with others in recovery to share experiences and build connection
  • Physical activity to rebuild your body’s strength and natural endorphin production
  • Nutritional guidance to support your healing brain and body
  • Sleep optimization which is critical for maintaining sobriety and emotional stability
  • Reconnection work to help you rediscover who you are without substances

We strongly encourage working with an integration coach in the months following treatment to support your continued healing and help you navigate the challenges of rebuilding your life.

Before we start, we need to make sure your body is ready. This critical preparation phase includes:

  • Complete medical evaluation including comprehensive cardiac screening with EKG to assess heart rhythm and function
  • Detailed substance use assessment to understand your patterns, history, and what substances you’ve been using
  • Blood work to check liver and kidney function, electrolyte balance, and overall health markers
  • Stabilization support if you’re currently in acute withdrawal—we provide medical comfort measures to ease symptoms
  • Education sessions about what’s going to happen during treatment, why ibogaine works at the neurological level, and what to expect
  • Nutritional support to prepare your body for healing, including hydration and vitamin supplementation if needed
  • Mental preparation with our psychologist or wellness coach to address fears, answer questions, and help you feel ready

We’re checking for any medical issues that could complicate treatment and making sure you’re as physically and mentally prepared as possible before beginning. This isn’t just paperwork—it’s laying the foundation for your safety and success.

You receive ibogaine in a single calculated dose based on your weight and substance tolerance—lying comfortably with an eye mask and curated music designed to deepen the therapeutic experience. Connected to continuous cardiac monitoring with medical staff present throughout, the 4-12 hour journey allows withdrawal symptoms to dissolve rather than intensify while your brain resets multiple neurotransmitter systems simultaneously.

What happens during treatment: Physically: Within hours, your withdrawal symptoms begin disappearing. Most patients report feeling them melt away rather than intensify. By the next morning, physical withdrawal is essentially over—something that normally takes 7-14 excruciating days happens in less than 36 hours with minimal discomfort.

Psychologically: Many people experience a deeply introspective journey. You might see memories, understand patterns, process why you started using. Some patients report conversations with deceased loved ones or spiritual experiences. Others simply experience visual patterns and deep rest. There’s no “typical” experience—each person’s journey is unique to what they need to heal.

Neurologically: This is where ibogaine is truly revolutionary. It’s resetting multiple neurotransmitter systems simultaneously—dopamine, serotonin, opioid receptors—back to pre-addiction states. The physical dependence is being broken at the cellular level.