You have probably heard of MDMA, the psychedelic drug known as “ecstasy” or “molly,” which in recent years has attracted a great deal of interest among scientists and medical professionals. Why? Evidence is growing that it may serve as an important aid in treating certain “mental” illnesses.
Some Background on MDMA
MDMA is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant and a hallucinogen. In other words, it affects mood and consciousness, producing feelings of euphoria, happiness, love for others, heightened sensitivity, and a distorted perception of reality and time. These effects result from changes in three main chemicals in the brain: serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. [1]
Risks and Side Effects
As with any treatment, there are risks and concerns here too. MDMA can cause side effects such as anxiety, impaired judgment, nausea, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. There is also concern about possible neurotoxicity from prolonged, repeated use of MDMA. More research is needed on its long-term effects. [1]
In summary, although MDMA is currently an illegal drug associated with parties, new research suggests it may offer hope as an effective treatment for PTSD, and perhaps other mental illnesses, when it is given in a professional, controlled medical setting. In the coming years, we will learn more about the benefits and risks of this treatment. Beneath the surface, a paradigm shift is taking place in how we will treat “mental” illnesses in the near and more distant future.
Sources:
[1] FDA information page on MDMA -https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-fda-permits-clinical-trial-proceed-mdma-assisted-psychotherapy-ptsd
[2] MAPS MDMA research – https://maps.org/research/mdma
[3] Clinical trial results (Mithoefer et al. 2019) – https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-019-0456-6
[4] FDA grants “Breakthrough Therapy” designation to MDMA treatment for PTSD – https://maps.org/news/multimedia-library/3797-bulletin-summer-2017/audio/7180-audio-fda-breakthrough-therapy-designation
Treating Symptoms With SGB
Stella’s treatment is backed by dozens of clinical studies and is called SGB (Stellate Ganglion Block): a short procedure that targets the neural and physical changes in the “fight or flight” system that occur in the patient’s body as a result of trauma or anxiety. The treatment is a medical procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic into a bundle of nerves in the neck, performed under imaging guidance (ultrasound) for maximum precision and effectiveness. For more information, contact us or visit the FAQ on our website
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