MDMA for the Treatment of Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia

This paper (2022) makes the case for using MDMA to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and proposes possible mechanisms of action.

Abstract

“The profound economic burden of schizophrenia is due, in part, to the negative symptoms of the disease, which can severely limit daily functioning. There is much debate in the field regarding their measurement and classification and there are no FDA-approved treatments for negative symptoms despite an abundance of research. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a schedule I substance that has emerged as a novel therapeutic given its ability to enhance social interactions, generate empathy, and induce a state of metaplasticity in the brain. This review provides a rationale for the use of MDMA in the treatment of negative symptoms by reviewing the literature on negative symptoms, their treatment, MDMA, and MDMA-assisted therapy. It reviews recent evidence that supports the safe and potentially effective use of MDMA to treat negative symptoms and concludes with considerations regarding safety and possible mechanisms of action.”

Authors: Mitchell D. Arnovitz, Andrew J. Spitzberg, Ashkhan J. Davani, Nehal P. Vadhan, Julie Holland, John M. Kane & Timothy I. Michaels

Summary of MDMA for the Treatment of Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric syndrome characterized by psychosis, or loss of touch with reality. It is difficult to treat, and the total economic burden of schizophrenia is estimated to be over USD 60 billion per year in the United States.

Clinically significant negative symptoms are present in approximately 60% of patients with schizophrenia, and are associated with poor response to treatment and related functional outcomes. There are no approved treatments for negative symptoms anywhere in the world.

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MDMA for the Treatment of Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia

https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11123255

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Study details

Compounds studied
MDMA

Topics studied
Schizophrenia

Study characteristics
Literature Review

Authors

Authors associated with this publication with profiles on Blossom

Julie Holland
Julie Holland, M.D., is an American psychopharmacologist, psychiatrist, and author. Next to writing Ecstasy, she has written books about her experience working as an ER doctor in Bellevue Hospital in New York.