USE OF 3,4-METHYLENEDIOXYMETHAMPHETAMINE IN THE TREATMENT OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Abstract

Introduction: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by persistent intense reactions to memories of a traumatic event. In recent years, there have been several neuroscientific and clinical studies examining the potential of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) as a treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder. The purpose of this study is to synthesize the available studies in search of better information on the use of MDMA as a new treatment for PTSD. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review. The search occurred in major databases, with the descriptors "N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine", "MDMA", "ecstasy", "stress disorders", "Post-Traumatic", "PTSD", combined with each other by Boolean operators. After critical appraisal, a final sample of 5 studies was obtained. Results and discussion: Studies showed that the use of MDMA in PTSD patients was able to promote symptom improvement when compared to placebo, besides significantly reducing CAPS-5 and Sheehan Disability Scale scores. No serious adverse effects were observed, but more studies should be done to attest to the safety of this substance. Conclusion: Therefore, the use of MDMA proved to be effective in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in all studies analyzed, with good tolerability among patients and with prolonged improvement of symptoms after the end of treatment. Further