COLUMBUS, Oh. (WOWO) Ohio lawmakers are reviewing the psychedelic drug ibogaine as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, according to WCMH. Veterans testified before the House Ibogaine Study Committee this week, sharing experiences traveling to Mexico to undergo ibogaine therapy.

The committee is expected to provide recommendations to the Ohio General Assembly regarding whether ibogaine should be approved for medical use in the state. Veterans emphasized that the treatment was sought after other options, including therapy and EMDR, were exhausted.

Researchers caution that ibogaine carries potential cardiac risks, including slowing the heart rate. Dr. Alan Davis, a psychedelic studies researcher at Ohio State University, noted that safer alternatives, such as psilocybin, have more established clinical safety profiles and may meet patient needs for PTSD and addiction treatment.

Committee members said they are weighing both the potential benefits described by patients and the medical risks. The review is ongoing, and no formal recommendation has been issued. WCMH reports that any approval would require further research to confirm safety and clinical efficacy.