Today, a panel of FDA experts begins the evaluation of clinical trial data to decide on the potential approval of MDMA, popularly known as ecstasy, for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Some participants in the trial have heralded the drug’s effects as transformational. However, the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review, a nonprofit organization that assesses clinical trials, has expressed “substantial concerns” regarding the validity of the study’s findings.
FDA Panel Weights MDMA Therapy for PTSD
An independent group of experts is meeting Tuesday to consider whether to allow use of this illegal drug, also known as Ecstasy, to treat PTSD.#business #finance #financenews #businessnews #news pic.twitter.com/QTCjr88Jie
— Breaking News (@FastNews77) June 4, 2024
There have been allegations that some therapists and investigators involved in the study may have influenced patients to report favorable outcomes while downplaying any adverse effects. Another significant issue raised is the ability of trial participants to discern whether they were administered MDMA or a placebo, which could compromise the reliability of the data. Despite these concerns, Lykos Therapeutics, the pharmaceutical company that sponsored the research, stands firm in its support of the study’s results.
In a separate but significant development, President Biden is poised to issue an executive order to address the escalating number of asylum seekers at the southern U.S. border. This executive action is anticipated to detail several measures that his administration will implement to manage the situation effectively. The president has invited mayors from various border cities to the White House to discuss these initiatives.
Ecstasy advised now to be considered for treatment of PTSD according to FDA. Ecstasy/MDMA acts as both a stimulant and hallucinogen, producing an energizing effect, distortions in time and perception, and enhanced enjoyment of tactile experiences. pic.twitter.com/w08rA70BZ4
— Dr Eddy consult (@EddyConsult) June 4, 2024
The executive order is expected to utilize a specific section of the Immigration and Nationality Act, granting the president the authority to limit immigration and bar the entry of non-immigrant visitors to the U.S. in order to protect national interests. This provision would enable President Biden to suspend entries when unauthorized border crossings exceed certain predefined thresholds. This action is considered to potentially be one of the most significant border management policies enacted by his administration.
https://twitter.com/DR_DRIP89/status/1797779780609491397
These developments highlight critical ongoing discussions in health and immigration policy, reflecting the complex challenges and decisions facing government and regulatory bodies today.
Major Points
- FDA experts are reviewing clinical trial data to determine if MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, should be approved for treating PTSD, despite concerns about the study’s validity.
- The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review has raised substantial concerns about the reliability of the MDMA trial results.
- Allegations suggest some therapists might have influenced trial participants to report positive outcomes and overlooked negative effects.
- President Biden plans to issue an executive order to address the high number of asylum seekers at the U.S. southern border.
- The executive order will use provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act to potentially suspend entries when unauthorized crossings exceed certain levels.
James Kravitz – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
