In Vivo Imaging of Cerebral Serotonin Transporter and Serotonin2A Receptor Binding in 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or “Ecstasy”) and Hallucinogen Users
David Erritzøe, Vibe G. Frøkjær, Klaus K. Holst, M.v. Christoffersen, Sys Stybe Johansen, Claus Svarer, Jacob Madsen, Peter Mondrup Rasmussen, Thomas Z. Ramsøy, Terry L. Jernigan, Gitte M. Knudsen
Archives of General Psychiatry June 6, 2011 DOI: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.56 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Cross-sectional study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA Serotonin |
| Keywords | Hallucinogen Serotonin transporter Pharmacology Partial agonist Context archaeology 5-HT Receptor Reuptake inhibitor |
| Citations | 86 |
| Key findings | MDMA use is associated with reduced cerebral SERT binding, likely through a direct presynaptic effect, with potential subcortical recovery after months of abstinence. |
Abstract
We found evidence that MDMA but not hallucinogen use is associated with changes in the cerebral presynaptic serotonergic transmitter system. Because hallucinogenic drugs primarily have serotonin(2A) receptor agonistic actions, we conclude that the negative association between MDMA use and cerebral SERT binding is mediated through a direct presynaptic MDMA effect rather than by the serotonin(2A) agonistic effects of MDMA. Our cross-sectional data suggest that subcortical, but not cortical, recovery of SERT binding might take place after several months of MDMA abstinence.