FDA’s Rejection Of MDMA Therapy Disappoints Veteran Community

The Federal Drug Administration’s advisory panel has voted against the use of MDMA-assisted therapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), despite substantial evidence of its effectiveness. This decision has drawn significant criticism from veteran advocates and those involved in mental health treatment.

MDMA, also known as ecstasy, remains classified as a Schedule I narcotic. The MAPS Public Benefit Corporation had filed an application in December, urging the FDA to consider MDMA as a viable treatment for PTSD. MAPS CEO Amy Emerson stated that this application represented over 30 years of dedicated research and collaboration to offer a new treatment option for those living with PTSD.

However, the FDA panel reviewed the research and found it lacking, leading to a rejection of MDMA as an effective PTSD treatment. According to NPR, the panel scrutinized the research’s shortcomings and decided overwhelmingly against it. This outcome was met with disappointment by many involved in the trials. Ingmar Gorman, who participated in the research, felt the data wasn’t adequately considered: “The hope was always, if we do the science and we do the science right, the data will speak for itself.”

Emerson expressed her dismay, noting the significant need for new PTSD treatments and the challenge the committee faced in evaluating a therapy that combines drug and psychological interventions. Rep. Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), a retired Navy SEAL, also expressed his frustration. He has used MDMA for his PTSD and highlighted its benefits in an op-ed for Marijuana Moment, urging for greater acceptance and understanding of psychedelic therapies.

Veteran advocate Juliana Mercer, a 16-year Marine Corps veteran, described the decision as a “big gut punch.” She stressed the disappointment among veterans who had high hopes for MDMA-assisted therapy. Mercer attended the FDA panel hearing and noted the strong support from veteran organizations and individuals who had benefited from the therapy.

A study by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs found that 85 percent of participants experienced significant improvements using MDMA for PTSD. Mercer highlighted the urgent need for approval, citing numerous calls from veterans asking about the therapy. The FDA’s rejection marks a major setback for those seeking innovative and effective PTSD treatments.