Ibogaine trials for opioid use disorder get ARPA-H boost

ARPA-H pushes for ibogaine trials to treat opioid use disorder

The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) is spearheading efforts to accelerate clinical trials of ibogaine for opioid use disorder (OUD), according to a recent announcement. This initiative aims to address the significant gap in federally authorized research on ibogaine's safety and effectiveness in treating OUD, a condition affecting over 5 million Americans.

What the initiative entails

ARPA-H is calling on researchers and innovators from academia, industry, and government to participate in early-stage clinical trials of ibogaine, focusing on patient safety and the potential for Phase 3 trials. The agency's effort aligns with Executive Order 14401, which seeks to expedite medical treatments for serious mental illnesses.

The solicitation notice, identified as ARPA-H-SOL-24-106, outlines the requirements for participation, including key dates and submission guidelines. Interested parties are encouraged to review Special Notice ARPA-H-SN-26-158 on SAM.gov for detailed information.

Why it matters

Existing treatments for OUD, such as buprenorphine and methadone, have limitations, with more than 75% of affected individuals not receiving treatment. Even among those who do, high dropout and relapse rates persist. Ibogaine, a psychedelic compound, has shown promise in anecdotal reports for reducing opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but lacks rigorous clinical evaluation in the U.S.

ARPA-H's initiative could pave the way for new, effective treatment options for OUD, potentially transforming the landscape of addiction therapy. By fostering collaboration across sectors, the agency aims to generate the scientific evidence needed to evaluate ibogaine as a viable treatment.

How to participate

Prospective participants are invited to register for Proposers' Day, an optional event scheduled for September 15, 2026, in the Washington, D.C., Metro Area. This event will provide an opportunity to learn more about the initiative, ask questions, and network with other interested parties. Registration closes on September 7, 2026.

ARPA-H also encourages the formation of multidisciplinary teams to submit research proposals. A teaming page is available for proposers to share profiles and connect with potential collaborators.

This initiative represents a critical step toward expanding treatment options for OUD, with the potential to significantly impact public health outcomes in the United States.