Ibogaine death in Cambridge prompts police warning

Police warn of ibogaine dangers after Cambridge death

The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) has issued a warning about the potential dangers of ibogaine following a sudden death in Cambridge. The incident, which occurred on July 4, involved a man from the Waterloo Region who had participated in a private healing session where he consumed ibogaine, according to WRPS.

Investigation and charges

In the course of their investigation, police discovered that the deceased had ingested ibogaine, a psychoactive substance derived from an African rainforest shrub. The substance is not approved for recreational or medicinal use in Canada. On July 30, authorities seized suspected ibogaine along with various other powders, liquids, and capsules from a residence in Mississauga. Following the seizure, a 57-year-old man named Luis Da Silva was arrested and charged with criminal negligence causing death and selling a prescription drug recklessly.

Health Canada and ibogaine

The WRPS emphasized the risks associated with ibogaine, noting that it can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting, and may lead to severe injury or death. A 2017 advisory from Health Canada highlighted reports of serious and fatal adverse reactions linked to ibogaine use, underscoring that it is not an approved medical treatment in the country.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding the unregulated use of ibogaine, a substance that has been explored for its potential in treating opioid use disorder but remains unauthorized in Canada. The charges against Da Silva bring attention to the legal and health risks involved in the unsanctioned distribution and consumption of ibogaine.

The WRPS is urging anyone with further information on the investigation to contact them at 519-570-9777, ext. 4496.

Reporting based on CityNews Kitchener. Read the original: [link].