Iboga Alkaloid Encyclopedia · Precursor Alkaloid
Voacangine
Synthetic precursor to ibogaine; 12-methoxy ibogaine analog with its own anti-addictive profile.
Molecular formula
C₂₂H₂₈N₂O₃
Molecular weight
368.47 g/mol
CAS registry
510-22-5
TA share (approx.)
Variable — abundant in Voacanga africana, present in Tabernanthe iboga TA
IUPAC / systematic
12-methoxyibogaline-18-carboxylic acid methyl ester (commonly: voacangine)
Profile
Voacangine is best known as a semi-synthetic precursor for ibogaine — it can be decarboxylated and demethylated to yield ibogaine. Voacangine itself has been shown to have anti-addictive and analgesic activity in animal models and is increasingly studied for its own pharmacology.
In iboga root bark TA, voacangine is one of the structural cousins that contributes to the broader receptor footprint of the unrefined extract.
Receptor & Target Profile
- Mu-opioid receptor: ligand activity reported in animal models.
- Sigma receptors: binding reported.
- Cholinesterase inhibition: reported in vitro.
Role at MindScape
Present in TA at variable share; contributes to the unrefined extract's receptor profile during taper bridging.
Citations
- Alper KR. (2001). The Alkaloids: Chemistry and Biology, 56, 1-38.
- Iyer RN, et al. (2021). Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12, 753206.
Citation list is illustrative. Where peer-reviewed data is thin or absent, MindScape's pharmacology summary draws on textbook references (Alper 2001 — The Alkaloids: Chemistry and Biology, vol. 56) and is hedged accordingly.
Related alkaloids
Ibogaine
The primary psychoactive indole alkaloid in Tabernanthe iboga; the molecule used at flood-dose for opioid-use-disorder reset.
Ibogamine
Cardiac-sparing minor indole alkaloid in iboga TA — present at meaningful share, contributes to TA's broader receptor footprint.
Ibogaline
Methoxylated ibogaine analog present at trace levels in iboga root bark.