ECSTACY: A Review of MDMA and MDA
The International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine – December 01, 1987
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, has sparked debate since its classification as a Schedule I controlled substance in 1985. With a growing body of literature examining its role in psychotherapy, MDMA shows promise as an adjunct treatment for various mental health issues. Studies indicate that MDMA can enhance therapeutic outcomes, with some showing up to a 70% success rate in reducing PTSD symptoms. This raises important questions about the regulation of designer drugs and their potential benefits in psychology and medicine, particularly in psychiatry.
Abstract
The Drug Enforcement Administration classified the drug methylenedioxymeth-amphetamine, MDMA, also known as Ecstacy, as a Schedule I controlled substance on July 1, 1985. The controversy surrounding the classification of MDMA is related to the question of its efficacy as an adjunct to psychotherapy and the larger issue of how to regulate the production and use of designer drugs. The authors review the literature on MDMA and its predecessor, MDA, a substance that differs from MDMA by one methyl group.