Presley Gerber’s Death Highlights Concerns in Addiction Treatment Approaches

Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, passed away at a California rehab facility, bringing attention to substance use disorder and the challenges in treatment. Addiction specialist Dr. Drew Pinsky highlighted the progressive and deadly nature of this disorder.

Dr. Pinsky expressed concern that allowing patients to dictate their care can be detrimental. He reflected on Gerber’s self-reported journey to Mexico for an “ibogaine flood,” a treatment involving a psychoactive compound. While ibogaine is researched as a potential treatment, it is not FDA-approved and is a Schedule I substance in the U.S. due to risks like fatal heart arrhythmias.

Pinsky shared that patients using ibogaine or ayahuasca often relapse. Gerber’s case is a reminder that severe substance use disorder requires adherence to proven medical protocols instead of risky therapies.

The public may be shocked by Gerber’s death inside a treatment center, but Pinsky emphasizes that high-end rehab centers cannot instantly cure severe opioid dependence. He stresses the need for families to seek fully licensed facilities with evidence-based treatments, such as FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder.

Dr. Nicholas Kardaris, CEO of the New York Center for Living, notes the danger during or immediately after rehab. He reinforces that patients in rehab are not necessarily cured and can relapse with tragic consequences.

Medical experts advise families to pursue evidence-based treatment, including medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, when suitable.