Distinct neural mechanisms for the prosocial and rewarding properties of MDMA
Science Translational Medicine December 11, 2019 Boris D. Heifets, Juliana S Salgado, Madison Taylor et al. 119 citations
MDMA's prosocial effects can be separated from its addictive properties by using fenfluramine, a selective serotonin-releasing compound. This finding reveals a conserved neuronal pathway that could be targeted to develop new therapeutics with limited abuse liability, offering a potential strategy for creating safer treatments that promote social connection without the risks of addiction.