Perspectives on the therapeutic potential of MDMA: A nation-wide exploratory survey among substance users
Jennifer L. Jones
Frontiers in Psychiatry April 14, 2023 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1096298 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Cross-sectional survey Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 918 |
| Population | Individuals self-reporting criteria consistent with alcohol or substance use disorders |
| Topics | MDMA PTSD |
| Keywords | Race and ethnicity Viable treatment option Therapeutic potential Conditions Like PTSD Strong support Medical research Broad interest |
| Citations | 4 |
| Key findings | A majority of individuals with substance use disorders support MDMA research and believe in its therapeutic potential, with no race or ethnicity differences in support or belief, though small disparities exist in willingness to try the therapy. |
Abstract
BackgroundAlcohol and other substance use disorders are commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the presence of these comorbidities is associated with worse treatment outcomes. Additionally, disparities in substance and PTSD prevalence have been associated with minority races and ethnicities, and minorities have been shown to be less likely to engage in treatment. Psychedelic-assisted treatments, including 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), have shown preliminary trans-diagnostic effectiveness, however it is unknown how individuals with substance use disorders view the therapeutic potential of MDMA therapy. Previous studies have also shown that minority races and ethnicities are under-represented in the MDMA trials, leading to concerns about inequitable access to clinical treatment.MethodsTo explore demographic characteristics related to patient-level perspectives on the therapeutic potential of MDMA-assisted therapy, this study describes data from a nationwide, cross-sectional survey of 918 individuals self-reporting criteria consistent with alcohol or substance use disorders.ResultsOverall, a majority of individuals reported support for medical research of MDMA (68.1%), belief that MDMA-assisted therapy might be a useful treatment (70.1%), and willingness to try MDMA-assisted therapy if it were determined to be an appropriate treatment for them (58.8%). No race or ethnicity differences were found in support for further research or belief in effectiveness, however there were small disparities in terms of willingness to try MDMA-assisted therapy and concerns related to use of this treatment approach.ConclusionThese results provide insights and future directions as the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy seeks to provide equitable access to clinical care and to diversify research participation.
Comparable studies
Other cross-sectional and survey studies on MDMA for PTSD, most cited first.