MDMA‐assisted psychotherapy reduces PTSD symptom severity

Summary

Prior use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may diminish the effectiveness of MDMA-assisted therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This finding suggests that individuals who have previously taken SSRIs could experience less benefit from MDMA treatment, which is nearing approval as a psychedelic therapy for PTSD.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Prior use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may reduce the effectiveness of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)‐assisted therapy for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), say researchers of a recent study who noted that MDMA is close to being considered the first psychedelic drug approved to treat PTSD.