Distinct neural mechanisms for the prosocial and rewarding properties of MDMA
Science Translational Medicine December 11, 2019 Boris D. Heifets, Juliana S. Salgado, Madison Taylor et al. 119 citations
MDMA's prosocial effects can be separated from its addictive properties by using fenfluramine, a selective serotonin-releasing compound. This finding reveals a conserved neuronal pathway that could be targeted to develop new therapeutics with limited abuse liability, offering a potential strategy for creating safer treatments that promote social connection without the risks of addiction.