The psychological and physiological effects of MDMA on normal volunteers

This early study (1986) of the effects of MDMA suggests that MDMA exerts predictable transient psychological effects and shows no major toxicity. However, the author cautiously concludes that the evidence is insufficient to make definitive judgments.

Abstract

“Administered 2-methylamino-1-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-propane (MDMA) to 21 Ss to provide baseline data on cardiovascular, biochemical, and neurobehavioral effects of the drug. Only 14 Ss completed the MDMA experience report. Doses ranged from 0.8 to 1.9 mg per pound of body weight, the mean dose being 1.14 mg per pound. Data are provided on Ss’ demographic characteristics, previous MDMA experiences, other drug use, general health, negative and positive MDMA effects, preferred frequency of use and recommended legal status for MDMA, and cardiovascular, biochemical, and neurobehavioral responses to MDMA. MDMA has consistent and predictable psychological effects that are transient and free of clinically apparent major toxicity; however, there is insufficient evidence to accurately judge either the drug’s potential harm or benefit.”

Author: Joseph Downing

Summary

es of customary social exploration, followed by sys- the study, exemplified by Kueny’s study (1980) on lronl, were condensed into a few years of study, in which 21 subjects were given MDMA and divided into three groups according to their personal characteristics and therapeutic setting.

The Department of Justice used emergency administrative powers to place MDMA in Schedule I, despite the disagreement of a small group of physicians, thera- physicians and researchers. The blood chemistry routine included preingestion, 30 minutes, one-, two-, three-, four-, five-, six- and 24-hour cardiovascular data collection.

A pilot study of 21 healthy volunteers was conducted to evaluate the effects of a single exposure to MDMA on cardiovascular, biochemical, and neurobehavioral parameters. The study excluded subjects with previously negative experiences and used a dosage of one milligram per pound of body weight.

All 21 participants were personally known to a member of the research staff, stated they were in good health, and were considered mentally stable. They were allowed to select their own dose of MDMA, and reported mental deficits either during or after the session were minimal and difficult to interpret.

Since taking MDMA, six persons reported major life changes, two specified marriage and two divorce, no social conflict was reported, two had received traffic tickets and none were unemployed.

Thirteen of the 21 subjects were men and eight were women. They recommended MDMA to others and were favorable to the idea of allowing cancer to grow.

The subjects’ previous MDMA experi- ences ranged from one to 15 (median 8.5), and the reported frequency of use was from slightly less than once monthly to “+better” and none stating +’worse”.

The subjects used alcohol, marijuana and cocaine, and preferred a dosage of 75-200 rag. No other drug dependence was reported, and no categories were given, yet the answers fit into three General Health categories: (1) therapists and spiritual leaders only.

All subjects considered their health when using MDMA, and 70 percent believed it had no effect on their health. Two persons had severe eye conditions, and three recommended legal controls, while one person said it had worsened her visual problems.

Four subjects peaked at a diastolic pressure over 100 mm Hg, and the highest single peak of 200/120 occurred in a 58-year-old woman who had taken 1.00 mg/Ib. No one objected to these effects, and the highest dose was not associated with any significant long-term toxicity.

MDMA produces positive mood changes in us- ers, does not cause negative problems (if used sparingly) and is without evidence of abuse. The experimental situation produced no observed or reported psychological or physiological damage, either dur- ing the 24-hour study period or during the three-month follow-upperid.