MDMA and 5‐HT neurotoxicity: the empirical evidence for its adverse effects in humans – no need for translation
British Journal of Pharmacology – March 09, 2012
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, has been shown to cause significant harm in humans, contradicting claims of its safety. Neuroimaging studies reveal that abstinent recreational users exhibit reduced serotonin transporter (SERT) levels, with consistent findings across various assessments. In a sample of hundreds of participants, these SERT reductions were linked to impairments in memory and higher cognitive functions. The extent of neurocognitive deficits correlates directly with the degree of SERT loss, highlighting MDMA's adverse effects on brain health and function.
Abstract
In this issue of the BJP , Green et al . suggest that animal data could not be used to predict the adverse effects of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in humans and that MDMA did not produce 5‐HT neurotoxicity in the human brain. This proposal was, however, not accompanied by a review of the empirical evidence in humans. The neuroimaging data on 5‐HT markers in abstinent recreational ecstasy/MDMA users are extensive and broadly consistent. Reduced levels of the 5‐HT transporter (SERT) have been found by research groups worldwide using a variety of assessment measures. These SERT reductions occur across the higher brain regions and remain after controlling for potential confounds. There are also extensive empirical data for impairments in memory and higher cognition, with the neurocognitive deficits correlating with the extent of SERT loss. Hence, MDMA is clearly damaging to humans, with extensive empirical data for both structural and functional deficits. LINKED ARTICLES This article is a commentary on Green et al ., pp. 1523–1536 of this issue. To view this paper visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01819.x . A rebuttal by Green et al . also appears in this issue, pp. 1521–1522. To view this rebuttal visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.01940.x