MDMA-Based Psychotherapy in Treatment-Resistant Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Brief Overview of Current Evidence
Kainat Riaz, Sejal Suneel, Mohammad Hamza Bin Abdul Malik, Tooba Kashif, Irfan Ullah, Abdul Waris, Marco Di Nicola, Marianna Mazza, Gabriele Sani, Giovanni Martinotti, Domenico De Berardis
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has the potential to reduce PTSD symptoms, even in patients who do not respond to traditional therapies. This approach has received 'Breakthrough Therapy' designation from the FDA based on findings from six phase II randomized controlled trials. MDMA may work by increasing neurohormones like dopamine and serotonin and affecting brain areas related to fear and anxiety. However, further research is necessary to evaluate its overall benefits and integration into existing PTSD treatments.
Study at a glance
| Design | randomized controlled trial |
|---|---|
| Population | PTSD patients |
| Key finding | MDMA-assisted psychotherapy can potentially reduce PTSD symptoms in treatment-resistant cases. |
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health disorder that causes significant dysfunction in individuals. Currently, there are many approved Pharmacotherapy and Psychotherapy treatment options for PTSD, but unfortunately, half of the patients do not respond to traditional therapies. In this article, we reviewed clinical trials and research on 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) assisted Psychotherapy in PTSD patients, its pharmacokinetics and current treatment guidelines for PTSD. Based on the results of the efficacy of MDMA assisted Psychotherapy from six phases II Randomized controlled trials. MDMA-assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD has received the “Breakthrough Therapy” designation from the FDA. MDMA can potentially reduce PTSD symptoms even in treatment-resistant cases by increasing certain neurohormones, i.e. dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and oxytocin. It also modulates activities in the brain regions involved in fear and anxiety. Future research is needed to show whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages and whether its use can be integrated into available treatment options for PTSD.