The effects of MDMA on socio-emotional processing: Does MDMA differ from other stimulants?

MDMA, a recreational drug, enhances sociability and feelings of closeness more than other stimulants like dextroamphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate. This review compares human laboratory studies on the social effects of MDMA versus other stimulants, from simple ratings of sociability to complex social behaviors, and examines the neurochemical mechanisms involved. The findings suggest that MDMA's distinct prosocial effects may underlie its recreational use and potential as a psychotherapy aid, distinguishing it from typical stimulants.

Study at a glance

Abstract

±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a popular recreational drug that enhances sociability and feelings of closeness with others. These “prosocial” effects appear to motivate the recreational use of MDMA and may also form the basis of its potential as an adjunct to psychotherapy. However, the extent to which MDMA differs from prototypic stimulant drugs, such as dextroamphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate, in either its behavioral effects or mechanisms of action, is not fully known. The purpose of this review is to evaluate human laboratory findings of the social effects of MDMA compared to other stimulants, ranging from simple subjective ratings of sociability to more complex elements of social processing and behavior. We also review the neurochemical mechanisms by which these drugs may impact sociability. Together, the findings reviewed here lay the groundwork for better understanding the socially enhancing effects of MDMA that distinguish it from other stimulant drugs, especially as these effects relate to the reinforcing and potentially therapeutic effects of the drug.