Could MDMA help veterans overcome PTSD? new trial explores the possibility.
NCT ID NCT06117306
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a drug called MDMA (often known as ecstasy) can boost the effects of a specific type of talk therapy for PTSD in veterans. Twenty veterans will receive one MDMA session along with 12 prolonged exposure therapy sessions. The goal is to see if this combination reduces PTSD symptoms more than therapy alone.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- MDMA (also known as ecstasy or molly)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a more effective treatment for PTSD in veterans by combining therapy with a controlled dose of MDMA.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small early-phase trial with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. MDMA can cause side effects like anxiety, increased heart rate, or emotional distress during sessions.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
RECRUITINGSan Diego, California, 92161, United States
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