Ambio Life Sciences partners with Athletes for Care

Ambio Life Sciences and Athletes for Care partnership

Ambio Life Sciences, a leader in ibogaine treatment, has teamed up with Athletes for Care (A4C) to offer medically supervised ibogaine programs to professional athletes dealing with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This collaboration aims to provide athletes with access to treatment options that are currently limited, according to a press release dated October 15, 2026.

Initial cohort and treatment details

In September 2026, a group of three former NHL players and two former NFL players participated in a treatment program at an Ambio clinic in Baja California, Mexico. The athletes underwent a five-day program that included a single ibogaine "flood dose," comprehensive medical screening, continuous care, and holistic treatments. This program is self-funded by the athletes, with some financial support from Ambio.

The impact of head trauma on athletes

Research has increasingly linked repeated head trauma in sports to long-term brain injuries. A 2026 study found chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in 215 out of 235 brains of former NFL players examined, highlighting the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases among athletes. Similar risks have been identified in ice hockey players, with studies showing increased odds of CTE with each additional year of play.

Why it matters

The partnership between Ambio Life Sciences and Athletes for Care could pave the way for future clinical research on ibogaine as a treatment for TBI, neurodegenerative diseases, and substance use disorders in athletes. While existing studies do not conclusively prove the safety or efficacy of ibogaine for these conditions, the personal experiences of athletes who have undergone treatment suggest potential benefits.

Future research opportunities

Ambio's collaboration with A4C aims to establish a foundation for future studies on ibogaine's effectiveness in treating various medical and psychiatric conditions in athletes. The partnership hopes to contribute to a better understanding of TBI and its treatment, potentially offering new hope for athletes struggling with the long-term effects of their sports careers.

Ambio Life Sciences operates clinics in Mexico and Malta, offering integrative ibogaine treatment for various conditions, including addiction and psychological trauma. Athletes for Care is a nonprofit organization focused on improving mental health outcomes for athletes.