J Psychopharmacol
July 19, 2010
Michael C Mithoefer, Mark T Wagner, Ann T Mithoefer et al.
672 citations
In a pilot randomized controlled trial, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy reduced PTSD symptoms more than placebo therapy in people with chronic, treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder. The treatment was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events. These results suggest that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy may be a safe and effective intervention for this difficult-to-treat population, warranting further investigation.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
January 1, 2013
Michael C Mithoefer, Mark T Wagner, Ann T Mithoefer et al.
377 citations
In a long-term follow-up of the first completed trial of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD, all 19 original participants took part, and 16 completed all outcome measures 17 to 74 months after their final MDMA session (average 45.4 months). The mean CAPS score at follow-up (23.7) was nearly identical to the mean score at study exit (24.6), indicating that the substantial symptom relief achieved during the trial was maintained over time. Although two participants relapsed, the majority sustained clinically significant improvements, and no one reported harm from participation.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
August 1, 2017
Mark T Wagner, Michael C Mithoefer, Ann T Mithoefer et al.
163 citations
Traumatic events can lead to lasting personality changes, especially increased neuroticism. In a randomized trial of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD, changes in openness—but not neuroticism—moderated the link between reduced PTSD symptoms and the treatment. Patients showed increased openness and decreased neuroticism from baseline to long-term follow-up. These preliminary findings suggest MDMA-assisted psychotherapy may alter personality structure beyond just relieving PTSD symptoms, leading to enduring personality change.