MDMA-Assisted Therapy: Hope for PTSD Sufferers
MDMA-assisted therapy represents a novel approach in treating severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event. This event often involves a threat to one’s life or personal safety, and the fear it instills can have long-lasting effects. PTSD is more common than many realize, affecting around 5-10% of Australians at some point in their lives. The symptoms of PTSD can be severe and wide-ranging, including ongoing flashbacks, distressing reminders of the event, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, feelings of anger, guilt, shame, and increased use of alcohol and other drugs.
MDMA in PTSD Treatment
MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is an empathogen drug known to increase feelings of empathy, kindness, social acceptance, and connection to others. It was first synthesized in the early 1900s with the intention of controlling bleeding. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s and early 1980s that some psychiatrists began using MDMA as an aid in the treatment of PTSD.
Promising Results from Clinical Trials
The research into the use of MDMA as a therapeutic drug was revived with a study published in 2010. This study, along with subsequent successful clinical trials, showed significant improvements in PTSD symptoms. As a result, the US recognized MDMA as a breakthrough therapy in 2017. Clinical trials are now being conducted across 15 locations in the USA, two in Canada, and three in Israel.
One of the most recent studies, a multi-site, randomized, double-blind, confirmatory phase 3 study published in Nature Medicine, found that 86.5 percent of participants experienced a clinically significant benefit, and that 71.2 percent of participants no longer met criteria for PTSD once the study was over.
How Does MDMA Help PTSD?
It’s important to clarify that MDMA alone doesn’t treat PTSD, and research doesn’t suggest it’s a ‘cure’. Instead, MDMA is seen as a tool that can assist the process of psychotherapy. MDMA can reduce defensiveness and anxiety, increase relaxation and improve mood. It can also increase the bond between the therapist and patient. This may enable someone to revisit traumatic memories and work through their emotions without being re-traumatised, or finding the associated anxiety or fear too overwhelming.
The Future of MDMA-Assisted Therapy
From 1 July 2023, medicines containing MDMA can be prescribed by authorized psychiatrists to those experiencing PTSD in Australia. This decision has been made following the results of clinical trials, extensive public consultation, an expert panel report, and advice from the Advisory Committee on Medicines Scheduling.
MDMA-assisted therapy does present a promising new avenue for treating PTSD. However, it’s important to note that further research is needed to fully understand the implications and potential side effects of this approach. As we continue to explore the potential of MDMA-assisted therapy, we move closer to a future where PTSD is not a life sentence, but a condition that can be effectively treated and managed.