A federal advisory panel yesterday voted not to recommend the psychedelic drug MDMA for treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, flagging the drug's risks of abuse, potential for heart problems, and inadequate data. The vote comes amid a resurgence of medical interest in the hallucinogens long associated with high-risk recreational use.
MDMA is a synthetic stimulant developed by a Merck pharmaceuticals scientist in 1912, popularly known as ecstasy (in tablet form) and molly (as a powder). Users of the drug experience heightened sensations, distorted perceptions, and increased self-awareness as a result of the compound's increase in neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. MDMA is the first of a group of psychedelics—including LSD and psilocybin—expected to come up for federal approval.
Panelists noted flaws in the ostensibly blind clinical studies, specifically how recipients could recognize they had received MDMA and not the placebo due to the drug's powerful effects. The panel's recommendation now heads to the Food and Drug Administration for a final ruling by Aug. 11 (see relationship overview).
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