MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, commonly known as ecstasy) is an entactogenic drug of the phenethylamine and amphetamine families. MDMA has a tendency to induce euphoria, a sense of intimacy with others, and diminished anxiety and depression. Many, particularly in the fields of psychology and cognitive therapy, have suggested MDMA might have therapeutic benefits in certain individuals, and offer benefits that would facilitate therapy sessions. Clinical trials are now testing the therapeutic potential of MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety associated with terminal cancer. MDMA is criminalized in most countries in the world under a United Nations (UN) agreement,and its possession, manufacture, or sale may result in criminal prosecution, although some limited exceptions exist for scientific and medical research. MDMA is one of the most widely used recreational drugs in the world and is taken in a variety of contexts far removed from its roots in psychotherapeutic settings. It is commonly associated with dance parties (or “raves”) and electronic dance music. There have been debates within scientific, health care, and drug policy circles about the risks of MDMA, specifically the possibility of neurotoxic damage to the central nervous system (CNS). Regulatory authorities in several locations around the world have approved scientific studies administering MDMA to humans to examine its therapeutic potential and its effects. Continuing to study the … Video Rating: 5 / 5