FAQs

FAQS

About Ambio

About Ibogaine

Treatment Experience

Accommodations & Facilities

Programs & Processes

Safety & Medical Care

Medical Requirements

Preparation & Logistics

Aftercare & Integration

What is Ambio Life Sciences?

Ambio is the world’s leading integrative ibogaine provider. Founded by three pioneers in the field, we bring over 50 years of combined experience in clinical treatment, safety protocol design, and ibogaine research. Our mission is to ignite agency and inspire living - we do this by delivering the most clinically advanced, ethically grounded ibogaine care on earth.

What kind of treatment does Ambio offer?

We specialize in ibogaine treatment, supporting people who are struggling with addiction, mental health issues, trauma, traumatic brain injury (TBI), chronic pain, and neurodegenerative conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. We also support high-performing individuals and people seeking transformation and personal optimization.

Where is Ambio located?

We operate five world-class, program-specific treatment homes in Baja California, Mexico and Malta, an island on the Mediterranean coast of Europe. These facilities are secure, private, and medically equipped. For patient safety and privacy, their exact locations are not publicly disclosed.

What makes Ambio different from other ibogaine clinics?

Ambio is the only ibogaine clinic in the world compliant with the Nagoya Protocol for ethical sourcing, and we operate the world’s only ibogaine clinic for patients with neurodegenerative conditions. We’ve safely supported over 3,000 treatments, developed gold-standard safety protocols, and co-authored research with institutions like Stanford University. We are trusted by veterans, clinicians, elite performers, and patients seeking meaningful change.

Who is on the Ambio team?

Our founders are Jonathan Dickinson (CEO), Trevor Millar (COO), and José Inzunza (CMO), supported by licensed therapists, medical professionals, and hospitality staff across Mexico and Europe. Our clinics are staffed 24/7 to ensure continuous safety and care.

What are Ambio’s treatment facilities like?

Our treatment homes are equipped to the standard of a cardiac ICU but designed with the tranquility of a boutique resort. They feature private or semi-private rooms, serene outdoor areas, 24/7 medical staffing, and amenities like chef-prepared meals, somatic therapies, and personal comforts. Every space is monitored for continuous safety and kept confidential to protect patient privacy. For more about our spaces, visit the About Us section.

What is ibogaine?

Ibogaine is a plant-derived medicinal alkaloid with powerful psychoactive and neuroregenerative effects. It’s traditionally used in Central Africa for healing and initiation, and today, it’s used clinically to interrupt addiction, improve neurological function, and support deep personal transformation.

How does ibogaine work in the body?

Ibogaine is believed to engage multiple systems at once, including serotonin, dopamine, opioid receptors, NMDA receptors, and more. It also appears to trigger neuroplasticity and increase neurotrophic factors like BDNF and GDNF, which support healing, mood regulation, and functional recovery. It is one of the most pharmacologically complex medicines on earth.

What conditions can ibogaine help treat?

Ibogaine has been most studied for addiction, but shows promising effects in treating mental health issues, neuropathic pain, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, among others. At Ambio, we deliver ibogaine as part of specialized programs tailored to these needs.

Is ibogaine a psychedelic?

Yes, but it’s different from other psychedelics. Ibogaine produces a long-lasting, introspective, dreamlike state often described as oneiric. Rather than dissolving the ego like ‘classic’ psychedelics, it helps patients encounter unresolved memories, subconscious material, and insights that support profound behavioral change.

Where does ibogaine come from?

Ibogaine is primarily derived from the root bark of Tabernanthe iboga, a rainforest shrub native to Central and West Africa. For clinical use, it’s typically extracted from other ibogaine-rich plants to ensure sustainability. Ambio is committed to ethical sourcing and works in partnership with communities in West-Central Africa.

Is there scientific research behind ibogaine?

Yes. While research is still emerging, peer-reviewed studies and case reports show ibogaine’s impact on addiction, neurological function, and mood regulation. Ambio has contributed to research published in Nature Medicine and Frontiers in Immunology. You can explore the science in our Publications section.

What is the ibogaine experience like at Ambio?

The experience is deeply internal and varies from person to person. Most describe it as a dreamlike, introspective journey where memories, emotions, and insights emerge. Patients are supported by our staff at every moment and monitored for safety in a calming, clinical setting.

How is the treatment process structured?

Treatment begins with comprehensive pre-screening, including medical review, lab work, and an EKG. Once admitted, patients receive their ibogaine flood dose in a medically monitored session lasting 12–24 hours. Each treatment is tailored to the patient’s physiology and history, and supported by an experienced team in a secure, therapeutic environment.

What safety protocols are in place?

Safety is our top priority. Every treatment includes:

Cardiac and vitals monitoring during ibogaine treatment
Detailed medical screening for suitability
On-site medical teams trained in emergency response
Clinical-grade treatment rooms outfitted like cardiac ICUs
Individualized dosing and magnesium supplementation
Full post-treatment observation and recovery

What is “Gray Day” and what should I expect?

The day after ibogaine treatment is known as "Gray Day." It’s often a period of physical exhaustion and emotional processing. Patients rest, recover, and receive supportive care, including massage, nourishing food, and integration support.

What happens after the treatment session ends?

After ibogaine treatment, patients are monitored and cared for as they recover. Gentle therapies, continued supervision, and integration support help patients make meaning of their experience and begin long-term healing.

What are Ambio’s treatment facilities like?

Ambio operates five private homes in Baja California and one in Malta, each tailored to a specific program. Our spaces combine ICU-level safety infrastructure with the aesthetics and serenity of a wellness retreat. Rooms are private or semi-private, and each house is staffed 24/7 by our medical, therapeutic, and hospitality teams.

What amenities are included in the accommodations?

All accommodations include:

Private or semi-private bedrooms with personal rest areas
White noise machines, heaters, fans, and lamps
Comfortable linens, cozy bedding, and blackout masks
Chef-prepared, multi-course meals with high-quality local ingredients
Decaf coffee, herbal teas, bottled water, and healthy snacks
Somatic therapies such as massage, reiki, mindful movement & meditation, and breathwork
Art supplies, books, movies, and serene outdoor spaces
Seaside views, fire pits, spas, or gardens (varies by location)
Housekeeping, kitchen staff, and reliable high-speed internet
24/7 on-site medical care and continuous monitoring

Can I choose which house I’ll be treated in?

All house assignments are made based on the program selected and clinical needs. Each facility is uniquely equipped for specific treatment goals and staffed accordingly.

What kinds of ibogaine treatment programs does Ambio offer?

We offer three core treatment programs:

Foundational Program (5 days) for personal transformation
Detoxification Program (7–30 days) for opioid and substance dependence
Neuroregenerative Program (4 days onsite + 3 months microdosing) for chronic neurological conditions

What are the costs of Ambio’s programs?

Program costs range from $7,350 - $30,000 USD (depending on the program and duration of treatment).

Are there any discounts available?

Ambio offers veterans and first responders a $1,000 discount. Grant organizations, including Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS) and 343 Fund may be able to assist with additional support for those who qualify.

What’s included in the cost of treatment?

Every program at Ambio includes:

Round-trip ground transportation from San Diego, CA or Malta to the clinic site
Private or semi-private accommodations
24/7 medical supervision
Chef-prepared meals
Ibogaine treatment
Pre-treatment coaching
Somatic treatments and experiences (traditional temazcal (sweat lodge), massage, mindful movement & meditation, reiki)
Post-treatment integration support

Where does treatment take place?

All treatments are conducted at our private, fully staffed homes in Baja California, Mexico, in and around Tijuana, and Malta, an island on the Mediterranean coast of Europe. Each facility is tranquil, secure, and operated to the highest clinical standards. For safety and discretion, all Mexico clinic guests are picked up and dropped off by private drivers in San Diego, CA.

Why do you treat with ibogaine in Mexico and Malta?

Ibogaine is not legal in the United States, where ibogaine remains a Schedule I substance. In Mexico and Malta, ibogaine is unscheduled and can be administered safely and legally under medical supervision.

How long is the full process from start to finish?

The journey begins with an online application and medical screening. Once you're cleared, programs range from 4 to 30 days, depending on the track best for you and your medical needs. Our process includes preparation, ground travel, treatment, and integration.

Is this treatment confidential?

Yes. All travel, treatment, and medical records are private. We protect your privacy with discretion, care, and secure protocols.

Is ibogaine treatment safe?

Yes – when done correctly. Ambio is a global leader in clinical ibogaine safety. We follow industry-leading protocols including:

Rigorous medical screening (labs, EKG, med history)
24/7 on-site medical staff
Real-time cardiac/vitals monitoring
Emergency equipment and experienced care teams

What are the risks?

Ibogaine is a powerful medicine and must be taken seriously. Risks are primarily cardiac-related, which is why full disclosure of health history and medications is critical. We screen and prepare every client individually and have safely supported over 3,000 safe treatments.

How is ibogaine administered?

Ibogaine is given orally in a "flood dose" to catalyze transformation or interrupt substance dependence. Doses are calculated based on your body weight and health history and monitored continuously throughout the experience.

What is the treatment environment like?

While treatment is conducted with full clinical oversight and equipment comparable to a cardiac ICU, the space itself is calming, candlelit, and designed for inward reflection. Guests are supported by a compassionate team and are welcome to personalize their space with altar items. Traditional Bwiti music may be played to honor iboga’s lineage.

What if I have a difficult experience?

Ibogaine can be intense, but not chaotic. Most people lie still with eyes closed, in a dreamlike state. Our team is trained to support you medically and therapeutically throughout the process. You are never alone during treatment. For more information on how ibogaine impacts the body, click here.

What medical tests do I need before arriving?

Thorough pre-screening is necessary for our team to determine if you are an eligible candidate for ibogaine treatment, and if not immediately, to determine what steps can be taken to prepare you. Ambio requires:

An EKG (within 3 months of arrival)
A full blood panel (including potassium, magnesium, and liver enzymes)
A full medication, supplement, and substance review with our team - transparency is essential to rule out any potential contraindications

Can I stay on my current medications?

Some medications must be tapered before ibogaine treatment – especially SSRIs, antipsychotics, and stimulants. Others (like opioids or benzodiazepines) may be tapered or stabilized on-site. We will guide you through this process step by step.

Do I need to stop drinking alcohol?

Yes. You must abstain from alcohol at least 7 days before arrival. If you’re at risk of alcohol withdrawal, we can coordinate a supervised detox at our private facility.

What if I’m on Suboxone or methadone?

These medications require careful transition to short-acting opioids before ibogaine treatment. We can help you plan this process and offer supervised tapering if needed.

Can you help with pain or neurological conditions?

Yes, through our Neuroregenerative Program. We’ve seen promising results with conditions like TBI, MS, and Parkinson’s, but treatment is experimental and custom-designed. Contact us to discuss your case.

What are the steps to begin treatment?

Typically, the steps required to begin treatment at Ambio include:

Submit an application
Speak with our intake team
Complete your labs, EKG, and medication tapering
Meet with your coach
Travel to San Diego or Malta for secure pickup

How do I prepare for treatment?

You'll meet with your ibogaine-informed coach at least twice before arrival. They'll help you reflect, set goals, and prepare practically and psychologically. Avoid alcohol, unapproved medications/substances, and consider your intention.

What should I pack?

A full packing list will be provided by our intake team, but good things to bring include:

Comfortable clothing and comforting items (slippers, pictures of loved ones, etc)
Bathing suit or light clothes
Ear plugs, a hat, and sunglasses
A refillable water bottle
Personal altar items (if desired)
A journal and a pen
Travel documents (passport and health insurance)
Medications (as reviewed with staff)

How do I get to the clinic?

You’ll fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN) or Malta International Airport (MLA). A private driver will meet you and escort you directly to our facilities. You are never alone in transit. To ensure patient safety and security, the precise addresses of our clinics are not publicly disclosed, and patients cannot drive themselves or have their own driver bring them to Ambio.

Can I bring a companion or loved one?

Outside of exceptional circumstances in which a patient requires a medical caregiver to be present in transit, companions and loved ones are not permitted to accompany patients to Ambio.

What happens after treatment?

The day after treatment (known as “Gray Day”) is dedicated to rest and recovery. You’ll receive ongoing support from our team, and continue to work with your coach after you leave the clinic.

Do you offer long-term support?

Yes. We provide optional microdosing protocols, coaching, and integration resources to help you sustain change. Your coach will help guide next steps post-treatment.

How long do ibogaine’s effects last?

Ibogaine’s therapeutic effects can unfold over days, weeks, or even months, especially when supported by integration and lifestyle change.

Can I receive multiple treatments?

If recommended by your care team in the Detoxification Program, you may be offered a “booster dose” following your “loading dose” of ibogaine during your stay. If after you leave Ambio (from any program), you feel called to take ibogaine again, you can consult with our team to determine whether ibogaine may be appropriate again and when.

What if I still have questions?

You can get in touch with our team or explore the rest of our site:

What is Ibogaine for deeper science and mechanisms
Programs to find the program best suited for you
About Us to learn about our team and facilities
Success Stories to hear real client experiences
Publications to read the latest ibogaine research
Press Center to find the ibogaine and Ambio in the news
Or Contact Us directly for a confidential conversation

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