In a first since the 1960s, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder among veterans will be the subject of a study being launched by Veterans Affairs (VA).
Working with researchers from Brown University and Yale University through a $1.5-million grant, the VA will evaluate, in a randomized fashion, psychotherapy sessions enhanced by MDMA.
The study is scheduled to take place at the Providence VA Medical Center in Rhode Island and the West Haven VA Medical Center in Connecticut and is anticipated to begin enrollment this year. As with all VA studies, treatments will be conducted in a clinical setting with strict safety protocols and following all appropriate federal guidelines for conducting studies with controlled substances. Pharmaceutical-grade MDMA will be used, and participants will be closely monitored to ensure their well-being throughout the study.
“VA is on the cutting edge of clinical research for Veteran health, including in the investigation of psychedelics for mental health,” Former Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, MD, said in a press release about the study.1 “This study will give us better insight into the potential of MDMA-assisted therapy as a treatment for veterans.”
Psychedelic drugs are a class of substances that alter consciousness or awareness and can be organically or synthetically produced. To prevent serious self-injury or harm, VA strongly discourages self-medicating with psychedelics or any other unprescribed substances. Veterans should always consult their healthcare providers before making any treatment decisions.
If you know a veteran struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, the VA has available resources.
Reference
- Veterans Affairs. VA funds first study on psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans [press release]. December 3, 2024. Accessed December 9, 2024. https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-funds-first-study-on-psychedelic-assisted-therapy-for-veterans/