A review urges caution in interpreting studies of MDMA for PTSD due to failed blinding and a positivity bias from public advocacy.
Abstract
A randomized trial of MDMA as an adjunct to psychotherapy for PTSD found it superior to placebo plus the same manualized therapy (effect size 0.9). However, the blinding in that study almost completely failed. Vocal public advocacy for psychedelics as adjuncts to psychotherapy is creating an environment of high positivity bias that is affecting research quality and results. Thus, a recent review article urges caution regarding interpretation of studies so far regarding MDMA in the treatment of PTSD.