Human Metabolome Changes after a Single Dose of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) with Special Focus on Steroid Metabolism and Inflammation Processes
Journal of Proteome Research June 27, 2018 Martina I. Boxler, Gabriel L. Streun, Matthias E. Liechti et al. 23 citations
A single 125 mg dose of MDMA alters dozens of endogenous metabolites in human plasma, including increases in cortisol, pregnenolone sulfate, and several inflammation mediators, alongside a decrease in calcitriol. These changes suggest heightened stress and serotonergic activity, activation of inflammatory pathways, and potential reduction in neuroprotective factors for brain dopamine neurons.