MDMA Assisted Therapy

MDMA

ASSISTED THERAPY

Breaking health news reveals promising strides in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, showcasing its potential as a transformative treatment for various mental health conditions through a new blend of pharmacological and therapeutic approaches. Click through this intereactive experience to learn more! BY ALEXA ESPINOSA

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Psychotherapy TRIAL THERAPY TIMELINE

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05

Pre-Session Without mdma

Therapy Session without mdma

MDMA Assisted Therapy 2/3

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04

MDMA ASsisted therapy 1/3

Therapy Session without mdma

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Psychotherapy TRIAL THERAPY TIMELINE

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08

Therapy Session without mdma

Therapy Session without mdma

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09

MDMA Assisted Therapy 3/3

End of trial

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Effects on Body

These are the biological effects of MDMA in the body...

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Effects on Stomach

Digestive System: 1. After swallowing a pill, it goes to your stomach, where it dissolves. 2. The stomach is a holding tank where digestive enzymes and stomach acids work on preparing food for the small intestine. 3. Very little MDMA can be absorbed in the stomach; it needs to wait until the stomach contents move to the small intestine. 4. In the small intestine, your body begins to absorb the MDMA, passing it into your bloodstream.

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VS

Neurological

Cardiovascular

+MDMA causes a big increase in the levels of several neurotransmitters in the brain: serotonin feelingg of well and happy), oxytocin (affiliative behavior).+ Decreased activity in amygdala (responsible for regulating emotions and processing memories).

+ As MDMA enters the blood stream, the blood vessels constrict slightly. + Results in slight rise in Blood Pressure (BP) + Underlying heart conditions can add danger to one's health when taking MDMA, as well as high dosing and mixing drugs.

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After 2-3 Hours

MDMA's Impact on Neurotransmitters: - Increases levels of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. These are essential chemical messengers in the brain. Specifically Enhanced Neurotransmitters: - MDMA particularly elevates norepinephrine and serotonin levels. Serotonin regulates behaviors like sleep, pain, appetite, and has mood-elevating effects. Hormonal Changes Induced by MDMA: - Increases levels of hormones influencing the stress response. Raises oxytocin and prolactin levels, associated with trust and bonding. Amygdala

+ info

RESOURCES

To learn more about this research and about treating PTSD with MDMA-assisted therapy, visit the following sites: 1. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/ 2.https://www.samhsa.gov/resource/dbhis/national-center-ptsd 3.https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/mental-wellness/veteran-ptsd-treatment-support-resources

TRIAL RESULTS

n a 2021 study employing a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, the impact of therapy, combined with either MDMA or a placebo, on severe PTSD was investigated. The study, comprising 90 participants randomly assigned to two groups, revealed that three doses of MDMA in conjunction with therapy sessions over 18 weeks led to a notable decrease in PTSD and depressive symptoms. These were the observed outcomes: + 67% of the MDMA group and 32% of the placebo group no longer met the criteria for PTSD diagnosis. + 33% of the MDMA group and 5% of the placebo group achieved remission from PTSD. +No observed increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts or potential for drug misuse.

• To learn more about this study, click the image on the right.

What is it?

MDMA therapy is the combination of psychotherapy sessions and medically-grade MDMA. The latest research reveals that MDMA therapy is an effective method to treat moderate to severe PTSD. The therapeutic approach involves the administration of a regulated dose of 3,4-methyl​enedioxy​methamphetamine (MDMA) by healthcare professionals to individuals seeking therapy.The drug's effects facilitate the recall of traumatic memories during a therapy session and concurrently alleviate stress and anxiety. Currently, research on the efficacy of MDMA therapy as a treatment for PTSD is in the final stages, after which the FDA may consider it as a treatment option. Research into MDMA therapy as a treatment for PTSD is now in the final stages, after which the FDA may consider it as a treatment option for PTSD. In this interactive infographic, you will learn about this process and the physiological effects involved.

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Step 7

The initial dosage of 180mg administered. +Like the other sessions, you will be monitored and accompanied by healthcare professionals, who will monitor your Blood Pressure and Heart Rate after each session.

Step 5

In the second and third experimental sessions, doses are escalated to 120 mg + 60 mg of MDMA. + This dosing regimen is chosen based on efficacy studies from phase 2 trials.

Pre-Session

+ Before you begin, you will sit down an discuss your therapy plan with your psychiatrist. They will explain how after you take the prescribed dosage, neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, are released to alter brain activity. They comprise several hormones such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, known for their positive effects on mood, along with oxytocin, prolactin, and cortisol

NON-MDMA Therapy

Regular therapy for PTSD typically involves evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). In these sessions, patients work with mental health professionals to explore and reframe traumatic memories, manage distressing emotions, and develop coping strategies. + Along with your psychiatrist, you will have therapy sessions according to your personalized therapy plan.

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Once in the small intestine, the body will begin to absorb the drug through the bloodstream. In this stage, it is common to feel mildly ill with some experiencing heartburn, loose bowl movements, or even throwing up.

Step 2

+ Initial dose: 80 mg of MDMA (or placebo).+Supplemental half-dose: 40 mg administered 1.5–2 hours after the initial dose.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-023-02565-4