MDMA stimulates the release of serotonin, which is believed to stabilize mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. In signaling the release of dopamine, and norepinephrine, as well, MDMA helps users feel more open and empathetic, greater pleasure, and a reduction in anxiety. MDMA also acts on the amygdala, which helps regulate emotions and reduce the response to negative stimuli.
MDMA has shown efficacy in treating end-of-life anxiety (ELA) for patients in palliative care. In a MAPS trial1 led by researcher Phil Wolfson, patients with ELA who were administered 125 mg of MDMA in combination with two eight-hour psychotherapy sessions, showed a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
