Issue 62

Psychedelic profiles: MDMA

Last year MAPS completed its Phase IIIa trials with MDMA in the treatment of PTSD. The subsequent data release grabbed headlines internationally, with MDMA expected to be the first classic psychedelic medicine approved for clinical use in the 21st century.

MDMA was first synthesised in 1912 by Dr Anton Köllisch at Merck, and patented by the company in 1914. However, its therapeutic utility lay undiscovered until research by acclaimed tryptamine chemist Alexander Shulgin half a century later. Shulgin introduced the compound to his wife, a psychotherapist, for use in couples therapy.

MDMA is an empathogen, a psychoactive chemical that elicits feelings of empathy, similar in structure to both mescaline and methamphetamine. In response to a rise in recreational use in nightclubs, the DEA declared an emergency ban on MDMA in 1985, despite its medical potential.

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THE PROMISES AND PERILS OF PSYCHEDELIC HEALTHCARE

As the potential of psychedelic medicines goes mainstream, The New York Times explores the compounds in clinical trials

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THE MCQUADE CENTER INVESTS $US5M IN MINDSET PHARMA

The US member of the Otsuka Pharmaceutical group hopes to treat neurological disorders.

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BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT

2021 was the year psychedelics conquered capitalism.

It’s been a banner year for MAPS PBC and the women leading it.

COMPASS releases data on administering psilocybin to patients simultaneously.

Magic mushroom companies are on the Nasdaq now.

Awakn expands ketamine study into other behavioural addictions.

Should psychedelics be patented?

Ketamine therapy will go mainstream in 2022, for better or worse.

The psychedelics industry has surmounted every hurdle in 2021.

Health Canada approves Filament Health’s Phase II microdosing trial.

FDA puts hold on Mind Medicine’s IND application.

Mind Medicine completes clinical trial with ibogaine derivative.

Novamind creates design concept for psychedelic-assisted therapy clinics.

SCIENCE AND RESEARCH

Psychoactive drug could help troops with PTSD, UK general says.

The effects of psilocybin on cognitive and emotional functions.

Highlights from a landmark year in psychedelic science.

Betaine prevents and reverses dysfunction induced by repeated ketamine exposure in mice.

Ketamine eases depression and suicidal thoughts, according to study.

Integration proves a crucial factor for breakthroughs.

Becoming whole through psychedelics.

Can MDMA treat PTSD?

Now psychedelics are coming to your medicine cabinet.

Could psychedelic medicines treat dementia?

The life-changing realisations that people had on psychedelics.

At the PSYCH Investor Summit: Research and Technology, MAPS’ founder Rick Doblin and atai Life Sciences founder Christian Angermayer discussed the intersection of for-profit and non-profit psychedelic organisations.

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REGULATION AND LEGISLATION

Mayor of London reduces penalties for possession of psychedelic medicine.

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