Presley Gerber's ibogaine journey before his death

Presley Gerber, the 27-year-old model and son of supermodel Cindy Crawford, sought ibogaine treatment in Mexico just months before his death, according to a report by Page Six. Gerber, who had been battling addiction for several years, shared his journey on social media, revealing his efforts to confront the issues he had been avoiding.

Presley Gerber's ibogaine treatment

In March, Gerber posted a video from a wellness clinic in Cancún, Mexico, where he participated in a ritual involving ibogaine, a psychoactive substance derived from the root bark of the West African shrub Tabernanthe iboga. He described the experience as a "quiet moment before everything changed," indicating the profound impact the treatment had on him. Despite his fears, Gerber expressed hope that this would be his last time needing such intervention.

Family support and addiction struggles

Throughout his struggle with addiction, Gerber received support from his family. His sister, Kaia Gerber, expressed pride in his efforts to overcome his challenges, while his parents, Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, praised his courage and strength. Gerber had been open about his opioid addiction and dependency on prescription medications, including antidepressants and Xanax, which he used to manage panic attacks.

The potential of ibogaine

Ibogaine has been studied for its potential to treat opioid addiction and traumatic brain injuries. According to a 2025 study by Stanford University, ibogaine has shown promise in alleviating the symptoms of traumatic brain injuries, particularly in military veterans. However, the circumstances surrounding Gerber's death remain unclear, as the cause has not been disclosed.

Why it matters

Gerber's story highlights the ongoing struggle many individuals face with addiction and the potential role of alternative treatments like ibogaine. His openness about his journey sheds light on the challenges of overcoming substance dependency and the importance of support systems in recovery.

Gerber's untimely death underscores the complexities of addiction and the need for continued research into effective treatments.