Arguably one of the most prevalent experiences globally, trauma can be defined as a situation or event that induces stress. It occurs at least once in every person’s life to a varying degree. Based on its severity, a traumatic experience can lead to various secondary conditions, from mild restlessness to debilitating anxiety. The persistence of trauma-induced stress beyond a medically accepted duration can be termed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the data collected by the World Health Organization (WHO), with 3.6% of the population diagnosed with PTSD, over 250 million cases were reported worldwide. Social stigma, lack of awareness, and reluctance to relive the trauma undermine the actual prevalence of the condition. In the face of the growing necessity for an effective treatment, MDMA-assisted therapy is found to be the most favorable treatment option with respect to clinical outcomes.
MAPS, a non-profit research and educational organization, is dedicated to developing the medical, legal, and cultural use of psychedelics and marijuana for the benefit of the people. Sponsoring several advanced psychedelic therapy-related research worldwide, MAPS and its subsidiaries MAPS PBC and MAPS EU have raised over 140 million USD since its creation. The Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency and 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator speak volumes about the credibility of the organization and its conducted research. It was this group’s tireless dedication and determination that we are looking towards a future boasting better mental health. “Thanks to the combined efforts of dozens of therapists, hundreds of participants who volunteered in MAPS-sponsored trials, and many thousands of generous donors, MDMA-assisted therapy is on track to be considered for approval by the FDA in 2024,” said Rick Doblin, President and founder of MAPS.
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MDMA influences the memory associated with fear and promotes prosocial behavior. A researcher in the study said, “MDMA simultaneously induces prosocial feelings and softens responses to emotionally challenging and fearful stimuli” “potentially enhancing the ability of individuals with PTSD to benefit from psychotherapy by reducing sensations of fear, threat, and negative emotionality.” he further explained. Exploiting these properties, the study group was able to design a therapeutic approach that would help overcome the mental and social barriers that might otherwise prevent patients from processing past trauma. The trial was conducted across thirteen sites distributed between the U.S. and Israel. Patients who have PTSD were recruited and randomized into either MDMA-AT receiving or a placebo group and were assessed using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5). The double-blinded trials ended with 71.2% of the treatment group not fulfilling the PTSD criteria compared to 47.6% in the placebo group. Every participant experienced at least one symptom ranging from mild to moderate. Patients’ diaries from the MDMA-AT group documented positive emotional and physical effects and a heightened perception.
The prevalence and complexities related to PTSD and existing treatment limitations have always been a dilemma for the medical community. The recent global events and their associated repercussions led to an urgent need for new therapeutic approaches. Although MDMA-AT offers immense potential, we still need to overcome some issues. The efforts put in by the government and several other organizations promise a better future.
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