Lately, scientific research has been helping to reveal that MDMA and ravers are not the only good combination.
We all are very well aware that MDMA or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine is a synthetic drug that is infamously ingested in order to feel a whole different height of euphoria (You know those rave guys that want to keep the party going way past its end point?). Recent scientific studies show that this stereotypical party drug could finally be a cure to social anxiety; one of the most prevalent disorders in the 21st century.
MDMA has been known to improve one’s responsiveness to emotions, bring about a positive mood and boost openness and enhance both empathy and compassion, for others and for the self. Although these positive effects exist, and even if it is considered to be safe and effective in small and controlled doses, it has still been classified as Schedule 1 substance by the U.S Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) since back in the 80s. This alone is why medical research on the substance has been hindered.
Thanks to progressive times, medical research on not only MDMA but other psychedelic substances has been approved by the FDA and scientists began their pilot research last year. Twelve autistic adults will be a part of the research; there will be preparatory therapy sessions, followed by eight participants being given controlled amounts of MDMA and the others will be given a placebo. Over the following six months, progress amongst the participants will be monitored before the placebo group are given the opportunity to trial MDMA.
In due course, the researchers behind the trial hope to determine whether MDMA could be useful in improving the relationship between the individual and their therapist and reducing fear of social interactions with others. If the results are positive, hopefully the research will spur policymakers to talk about reclassification so that the drug’s therapeutic potential can be realised.
Let us know what you think of the trial in the comments.