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Committee hears testimony supporting supervised clinical-trial pathway for ibogaine (Ibagane) research
Summary
House Bill 2075 would create a structured, medically supervised pathway for FDA-authorized clinical trials of ibogaine (referred to as Ibagane) for opioid use disorder, PTSD and other indications; veterans and mental-health providers urged research under safety protocols during committee testimony.
The House Health Committee heard testimony on House Bill 2075, the Helping Open Pathways to Effective Treatment (HOPE) Act, which would establish a structured, medically supervised pathway for Tennessee institutions to participate in FDA-authorized clinical trials of ibogaine (referred to in testimony as Ibagane) for opioid use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and related indications.
Why it matters: Supporters told the committee that Ibagane may disrupt addiction-related brain pathways, reduce withdrawal and create an opportunity window for longer-term behavioral change. Proponents argued that carefully supervised clinical trials would allow Tennessee physicians to study safety and effectiveness without endorsing unsupervised, overseas treatments.
What supporters said: Alex West, a retired Navy SEAL who testified about his own overseas Ibagane treatment, described a lengthy preparation and integration process and credited the treatment with helping him become sober and discontinue psychiatric medication. ‘‘Many of my clients, especially those suffering from substance use disorder, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and suicidal ideation, would undoubtedly benefit from Ibagane treatment,’’ Alex West said (Alex West).
Ricky Harris, CEO of Tennessee Voices, said medication-assisted treatments save lives but do not work for every patient; he urged responsible research and medical supervision so families affected by addiction have more options. Dr. Peterson Wagner summarized treatment gaps in Tennessee—citing an estimated 130,000 Tennesseans with opioid use disorder and roughly 3,600 fatal drug overdoses in 2023—and urged hospital-based studies that would include cardiac screening and continuous monitoring.
Language and limits: Committee members adopted two clarifying amendments during the bill’s consideration in committee. Sponsor and supporters emphasized the bill does not legalize Ibagane outside of an FDA-authorized research framework and that the proposal would require institutional review and medical protocols.
What’s next: Committee hearing ended on a hard time stop before further votes; staff will carry forward the amendments and the committee may schedule the bill for additional consideration. The record shows bipartisan interest in expanding evidence-based options for severe substance-use disorders, paired with members’ questions about safety monitoring and regulatory compliance.
Sources: Committee proceedings and testimony from Alex West (Tennessans for Ibagane), Ricky Harris (Tennessee Voices) and Dr. Peterson Wagner.
