Positive trial sets stage for therapeutic use of MDMA in US

By Andy Extance2023-09-21T08:24:00

Source: © Travis Dove/The Washington Post/Getty Images

Hallucinogen-assisted psychiatric treatment heads to regulators, amid cost and other concerns

Much-anticipated positive clinical results for psychotherapy assisted by MDMA, otherwise known as ecstasy, in people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) could prompt a major shift in the mental health drug sector. Findings from a US phase 3 trial open the way to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) potentially approving MDMA-Assisted Therapy (MDMA-AT) PTSD as early as 2024.¹ While some welcome the results, others are voicing concerns, including that the treatment doesn’t offer value for money.