Acute Effects of R- and S-MDMA in Healthy Subjects (R-S-MDMA)

This crossover trial (n=24) investigates the acute effects of R- and S-MDMA compared to racemic MDMA and placebo in healthy subjects. The study conducted by the University Hospital Basel, Switzerland, focuses on understanding the distinct impacts of the enantiomers S(+)- and R(-)-MDMA.

MDMA, a racemic substance, is known for inducing feelings like heightened mood and empathy, which could assist psychotherapy, especially in treating post-traumatic stress disorder. This research, a Phase 1 interventional study, aims to dissect these effects by separately examining the S-MDMA, which primarily releases dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and oxytocin, and R-MDMA, which may act more on 5-HT2A receptors and release prolactin. Preclinical studies suggest that S-MDMA contributes to psychostimulation, whereas R-MDMA might have greater prosocial effects and fewer adverse impacts.

The study commenced on October 1, 2022, and completed on January 13, 2024, with the participation of 24 individuals aged between 18 and 65, who met strict inclusion criteria, such as not consuming illicit psychoactive substances during the study and adherence to specific dietary and lifestyle restrictions. The trial excludes individuals with major psychiatric disorders, chronic medical conditions, or a history of significant substance use. The primary goal is to validly compare the responses to these substances in a controlled, safe environment, providing valuable insights into their individual and combined effects. The results could have significant implications for the use of MDMA in therapeutic settings.

Topic Healthy Subjects Neuroscience
Compound MDMA
Country Switzerland
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Trial Details



Trial Number

Sponsors & Collaborators

University of Basel
The University of Basel Department of Biomedicine hosts the Liechti Lab research group, headed by Matthias Liechti.

Data attribution

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