The prosocial effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): Controlled studies in humans and laboratory animals

Kamilar-Britt, Philip; Bedi, Gillinder

doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.08.016

Cited by 163Psychedelics and Drug StudiesNeuroendocrine regulation and behaviorNeurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior

The prosocial effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): Controlled studies in humans and laboratory animals

Open access

Kamilar-Britt, Philip, Bedi, Gillinder·2015·Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews

DOI 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.08.016PMC PMC4678620

Open this paper in CoChat — free account

Abstract

Users of ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; 'ecstasy') report prosocial effects such as sociability and empathy. Supporting these apparently unique social effects, data from controlled laboratory studies indicate that MDMA alters social feelings, information processing, and behavior in humans, and social behavior in rodents. Here, we review this growing body of evidence. In rodents, MDMA increases passive prosocial behavior (adjacent lying) and social reward while decreasing aggression, effects that may involve serotonin 1A receptor mediated oxytocin release interacting with vasopressin receptor 1A. In humans, MDMA increases plasma oxytocin and produces feelings of social affiliation. It decreases identification of negative facial expressions (cognitive empathy) and blunts responses to social rejection, while enhancing responses to others' positive emotions (emotional empathy) and increasing social approach. Thus, consistent with drug folklore, laboratory administration of MDMA robustly alters social processing in humans and increases social approach in humans and animals. Effects are consistent with increased sociability, with mixed evidence about enhanced empathy. These neurobiologically-complex prosocial effects likely motivate recreational ecstasy use.

The claims and statistics of this paper haven’t been checked yet.

Run the check — free, no account needed. It reads the open-access text and checks the sources it cites.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.08.016

Cites

99 of 99 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Claims the paper makes

The claims and statistics of this paper haven’t been checked yet.

Run the check — free, no account needed. It reads the open-access text and checks the sources it cites.

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

MDMA may support more constructive engagement with distressing relational patterns by dampening reactivity to negative emotional stimuli.
“Additionally, by dampening reactivity to negative emotional stimuli, MDMA may support more constructive engagement with distressing relational patterns (153).”
From Psychoanalytically informed MDMA-assisted therapy for pathological narcissism: a novel theoretical approach (2025) · cites this paper as [153]
Section 4 reports that MDMA blunted negative feelings after simulated social rejection, and Section 6 suggests that reduced recognition of negative emotions might benefit trauma-related therapy. The paper does not establish that this effect supports constructive engagement with distressing relational patterns; Section 6 says its relevance to clinical settings remains unclear. (LLM, conf=0.83)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Acutely, MDMA has been described as a prototypical entactogen and is recreationally used for its prosocial effects.
“Acutely, MDMA has been described as a prototypical entactogen and is recreationally used for its prosocial effects (20).”
From Modulation of Social Cognition via Hallucinogens and “Entactogens” (2019) · cites this paper as [20]

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

The self-check needs the paper’s full text.

The “Reading the Mind in the Eyes” Test Revised Version: A Study with Normal Adults, and Adults with Asperger Syndrome or High‐functioning Autism
Baron‐Cohen, S., Wheelwright, S., Hill, J., Raste, Y., & Plumb, I. (2001) · Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry · doi:10.1111/1469-7610.00715 · Cited by 4,555 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Three studies investigated the effects of MDMA on emotion recognition from pictures of the eye region using the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET), which was designed to assesssocial cognition in individuals with autism(Baron-Cohen et al., 2001).”
The "Reading the Mind in the Eyes" Test revised version: a study with normal adults, and adults with Asperger syndrome or high-functioning autism.
Baron‐Cohen, S., Wheelwright, S. J., Hill, J., Raste, Y., & Plumb, I. (2001) · PubMed · Cited by 4,313 · see citing works
Neurobiology of emotion perception II: implications for major psychiatric disorders
Phillips, M. L., Drevets, W. C., Rauch, S. L., & Lane, R. (2003) · Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/s0006-3223(03)00171-9 · Cited by 1,736 · see citing works
Oxytocin Modulates Neural Circuitry for Social Cognition and Fear in Humans
Kirsch, P., Esslinger, C., Chen, Q., Mier, D., Lis, S., Siddhanti, S., Gruppe, H., Mattay, V. S., Gallhofer, B., & Meyer-Lindenberg, A. (2005) · The Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1523/jneurosci.3984-05.2005 · Cited by 1,639 · see citing works
Emotions Revealed: Recognizing Faces and Feelings to Improve Communication and Emotional Life
Ekman, P. (2003) · Cited by 1,603 · see citing works
Social effects of oxytocin in humans: context and person matter
Bartz, J. A., Zaki, J., Bolger, N., & Ochsner, K. N. (2011) · Trends in Cognitive Sciences · doi:10.1016/j.tics.2011.05.002 · Cited by 1,572 · cited 2× · see citing works
“Oxytocin is thought toregulatenumeroussocial behaviors in humans and animals(Bartz et al., 2011b; Baumgartner et al., 2008; Bos et al., 2012; Dumont et al., 2009; Kirkpatrick et al., 2014a; Lee et al., 2009).”
Responding to the emotions of others: Dissociating forms of empathy through the study of typical and psychiatric populations
Blair, R. J. R. (2005) · Consciousness and Cognition · doi:10.1016/j.concog.2005.06.004 · Cited by 1,365 · see citing works
Oxytocin shapes the neural circuitry of trust and trust adaptation in humans
Baumgartner, T., Heinrichs, M., Vonlanthen, A., Fischbacher, U., & Fehr, E. (2008) · Neuron · doi:10.1016/j.neuron.2008.04.009 · Cited by 1,258 · see citing works
Vasopressin and oxytocin release within the brain: a dynamic concept of multiple and variable modes of neuropeptide communication
Landgraf, R., & Neumann, I. D. (2004) · Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology · doi:10.1016/j.yfrne.2004.05.001 · Cited by 1,059 · see citing works
Oxytocin increases generosity in humans
Zak, P. J., Stanton, A. A., & Ahmadi, S. (2007) · PLoS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0001128 · Cited by 831 · see citing works
The safety and efficacy of ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted psychotherapy in subjects with chronic, treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder: the first randomized controlled pilot study
Mithoefer, M. C., Wagner, M. T., Mithoefer, A. T., Jerome, L., & Doblin, R. (2011) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881110378371 · Cited by 674 · see citing works
Increased Positive Versus Negative Affective Perception and Memory in Healthy Volunteers Following Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibition
Harmer, C. J., Shelley, N. C., Cowen, P. J., & Goodwin, G. M. (2004) · American Journal of Psychiatry · doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.161.7.1256 · Cited by 554 · see citing works
Intranasal Administration of Oxytocin Increases Envy and Schadenfreude (Gloating)
Shamay-Tsoory, S. G., Fischer, M., Dvash, J., Harari, H., Perach-Bloom, N., & Levkovitz, Y. (2009) · Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2009.06.009 · Cited by 542 · see citing works
Fear, faces, and the human amygdala
Adolphs, R. (2008) · Current Opinion in Neurobiology · doi:10.1016/j.conb.2008.06.006 · Cited by 502 · see citing works
Oxytocin can hinder trust and cooperation in borderline personality disorder
Bartz, J., Simeon, D., Hamilton, H., Kim, S., Crystal, S., Braun, A., Vicens, V., & Hollander, E. (2011) · Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience · doi:10.1093/scan/nsq085 · Cited by 452 · see citing works
Acute effects of steroid hormones and neuropeptides on human social-emotional behavior: A review of single administration studies
Bos, P. A., Panksepp, J., Bluthé, R.-M., & Honk, J. V. (2012) · Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology · doi:10.1016/j.yfrne.2011.01.002 · Cited by 429 · see citing works
A randomized, controlled pilot study of MDMA (±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine)-assisted psychotherapy for treatment of resistant, chronic Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Oehen, P., Traber, R., Widmer, V., & Schnyder, U. (2012) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881112464827 · Cited by 402 · see citing works
Durability of improvement in post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and absence of harmful effects or drug dependency after 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted psychotherapy: a prospective long-term follow-up study
Mithoefer, M. C., Wagner, M. T., Mithoefer, A. T., Jerome, L., Martin, S. F., Yazar‐Klosinski, B., Michel, Y., Brewerton, T. D., & Doblin, R. (2012) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881112456611 · Cited by 376 · see citing works
Social Value Orientation
Murphy, R. O., & Ackermann, K. A. (2013) · Personality and Social Psychology Review · doi:10.1177/1088868313501745 · Cited by 369 · see citing works
MDMA enhances emotional empathy and prosocial behavior
Hysek, C. M., Schmid, Y., Simmler, L. D., Domes, G., Heinrichs, M., Eisenegger, C., Preller, K. H., Quednow, B. B., & Liechti, M. E. (2014) · Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience · doi:10.1093/scan/nst161 · Cited by 356 · see citing works
Attack and defense in rodents as ethoexperimental models for the study of emotion
Blanchard, R. J., & Blanchard, D. C. (1989) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/0278-5846(89)90105-x · Cited by 296 · see citing works
Alcohol and Group Formation
Sayette, M. A., Creswell, K. G., Dimoff, J. D., Fairbairn, C. E., Cohn, J. F., Heckman, B. W., Kirchner, T., Levine, J. M., & Moreland, R. L. (2012) · Psychological Science · doi:10.1177/0956797611435134 · Cited by 274 · see citing works
Acute psychological effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “ecstasy”) are attenuated by the serotonin uptake inhibitor citalopram
Liechti, M. (2000) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1016/s0893-133x(99)00148-7 · Cited by 248 · see citing works
Is Ecstasy an “Empathogen”? Effects of +/- 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine on Prosocial Feelings and Identification of Emotional States in Others
Bedi, G., Hyman, D., & de Wit, H. (2010) · Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2010.08.003 · Cited by 247 · see citing works
Self-citation
Psychological and Physiological Effects of MDMA (“Ecstasy”) after Pretreatment with the 5-HT2 Antagonist Ketanserin in Healthy Humans
Liechti, M. (2000) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1016/s0893-133x(00)00126-3 · Cited by 245 · see citing works
Increased oxytocin concentrations and prosocial feelings in humans after ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) administration
Dumont, G. J. H., Sweep, F. C. G. J., van der Steen, R., Hermsen, R., Donders, A. R. T., Touw, D. J., van Gerven, J. M. A., Buitelaar, J. K., & Verkes, R. J. (2009) · Social Neuroscience · doi:10.1080/17470910802649470 · Cited by 238 · see citing works
A role for oxytocin and 5-HT1A receptors in the prosocial effects of 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (“ecstasy”)
Thompson, M. R., Callaghan, P. D., Hunt, G. E., Cornish, J. L., & McGregor, I. S. (2007) · Neuroscience · doi:10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.02.032 · Cited by 237 · see citing works
Which neuroreceptors mediate the subjective effects of MDMA in humans? A summary of mechanistic studies
Liechti, M. E., & Vollenweider, F. X. (2001) · Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental · doi:10.1002/hup.348 · Cited by 236 · see citing works
Oxytocin enhances processing of positive versus negative emotional information in healthy male volunteers
Di Simplicio, M., Massey-Chase, R., Cowen, P., & Harmer, C. (2009) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881108095705 · Cited by 229 · see citing works
Subjective and hormonal effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in humans
Harris, D. S., Baggott, M., Mendelson, J. H., Mendelson, J. E., & Jones, R. T. (2002) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-002-1131-1 · Cited by 229 · see citing works
IMPAIRED EMOTIONAL FACIAL EXPRESSION RECOGNITION IS ASSOCIATED WITH INTERPERSONAL PROBLEMS IN ALCOHOLISM
Kornreich, C. (2002) · Alcohol and Alcoholism · doi:10.1093/alcalc/37.4.394 · Cited by 229 · see citing works
Effects of MDMA on sociability and neural response to social threat and social reward
Bedi, G., Phan, K. L., Angstadt, M., & de Wit, H. (2009) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-009-1635-z · Cited by 206 · see citing works
Cerebrospinal fluid oxytocin, life history of aggression, and personality disorder
Lee, R., Ferris, C. F., de Kar, L. D. V., & Coccaro, E. F. (2009) · Psychoneuroendocrinology · doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.06.002 · Cited by 172 · see citing works
From ultrasocial to antisocial: A role for oxytocin in the acute reinforcing effects and long-term adverse consequences of drug use?
McGregor, I. S., Callaghan, P. D., & Hunt, G. E. (2008) · British Journal of Pharmacology · doi:10.1038/bjp.2008.132 · Cited by 171 · see citing works
Social reward-conditioned place preference: A model revealing an interaction between cocaine and social context rewards in rats
Thiel, K. J., Okun, A. C., & Neisewander, J. L. (2008) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2008.02.013 · Cited by 164 · see citing works
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) Modulates Cortical and Limbic Brain Activity as Measured by [H215O]-PET in Healthy Humans
Gamma, A. (2000) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1016/s0893-133x(00)00130-5 · Cited by 162 · see citing works
Duloxetine Inhibits Effects of MDMA (“Ecstasy") In Vitro and in Humans in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Laboratory Study
Hysek, C. M., Simmler, L. D., Nicola, V. G., Vischer, N., Donzelli, M., Krähenbühl, S., Grouzmann, E., Huwyler, J., Hoener, M. C., & Liechti, M. E. (2012) · PLoS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0036476 · Cited by 157 · see citing works
Differential effects of MDMA and methylphenidate on social cognition
Schmid, Y., Hysek, C. M., Simmler, L. D., Crockett, M. J., Quednow, B. B., & Liechti, M. E. (2014) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881114542454 · Cited by 155 · see citing works
Reinforcing, subjective, and physiological effects of MDMA in humans: A comparison with d-amphetamine and mCPP
Tancer, M., & Johanson, C.-E. (2003) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/s0376-8716(03)00172-8 · Cited by 153 · see citing works
The Norepinephrine Transporter Inhibitor Reboxetine Reduces Stimulant Effects of MDMA (“Ecstasy”) in Humans
Hysek, C. M., Simmler, L. D., Ineichen, M., Grouzmann, E., Hoener, M. C., Brenneisen, R., Huwyler, J., & Liechti, M. E. (2011) · Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics · doi:10.1038/clpt.2011.78 · Cited by 152 · see citing works
Acute psychological and physiological effects of MDMA (“Ecstasy”) after haloperidol pretreatment in healthy humans
Liechti, M. E., & Vollenweider, F. X. (2000) · European Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1016/s0924-977x(00)00086-9 · Cited by 145 · see citing works
MDMA enhances “mind reading” of positive emotions and impairs “mind reading” of negative emotions
Hysek, C. M., Domes, G., & Liechti, M. E. (2012) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-012-2645-9 · Cited by 144 · see citing works
Effects of MDMA and intranasal oxytocin on social and emotional processing
Kirkpatrick, M. G., Lee, R., Wardle, M. C., Jacob, S., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/npp.2014.12 · Cited by 143 · see citing works
Is ecstasy a drug of dependence?
Degenhardt, L. J., Bruno, R., & Topp, L. (2009) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2009.09.009 · Cited by 137 · see citing works
Modulation of interpersonal trust in borderline personality disorder by intranasal oxytocin and childhood trauma
Ebert, A., Kolb, M., Heller, J., Edel, M.-A., Roser, P., & Brüne, M. (2013) · Social Neuroscience · doi:10.1080/17470919.2013.807301 · Cited by 129 · see citing works
Acute prosocial effects of oxytocin and vasopressin when given alone or in combination with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine in rats: involvement of the V1A receptor
Ramos, L., Hicks, C., Kevin, R., Caminer, A., Narlawar, R., Kassiou, M., & McGregor, I. S. (2013) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/npp.2013.125 · Cited by 128 · see citing works
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of methylphenidate and MDMA administered alone or in combination
Hysek, C. M., Simmler, L. D., Schillinger, N., Meyer, N., Schmid, Y., Donzelli, M., Grouzmann, E., & Liechti, M. E. (2013) · The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1017/s1461145713001132 · Cited by 126 · see citing works
Effects of Acute MDMA Intoxication on Mood and Impulsivity: Role of the 5-HT2 and 5-HT1 Receptors
van Wel, J. H. P., Kuypers, K. P. C., Theunissen, E. L., Bosker, W. M., Bakker, K., & Ramaekers, J. G. (2012) · PLoS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0040187 · Cited by 122 · see citing works
The varieties of ecstatic experience: an exploration of the subjective experiences of ecstasy
Sumnall, H. R., Cole, J. C., & Jerome, L. (2006) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881106060764 · Cited by 116 · see citing works
The effects of fluoxetine on the subjective and physiological effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in humans
Tancer, M., & Johanson, C.-E. (2006) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-006-0576-z · Cited by 113 · see citing works
Acute and constitutive increases in central serotonin levels reduce social play behaviour in peri-adolescent rats
Homberg, J. R., Schiepers, O. J. G., Schoffelmeer, A. N. M., Cuppen, E. P. J. G., & Vanderschuren, L. J. M. J. (2007) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-007-0895-8 · Cited by 113 · see citing works
(±)-3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ‘Ecstasy’) increases social interaction in rats
Morley, K. C., & McGregor, I. S. (2000) · European Journal of Pharmacology · doi:10.1016/s0014-2999(00)00749-4 · Cited by 111 · see citing works
Plasma oxytocin concentrations following MDMA or intranasal oxytocin in humans
Kirkpatrick, M. G., Francis, S. M., Lee, R., de Wit, H., & Jacob, S. (2014) · Psychoneuroendocrinology · doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.04.006 · Cited by 106 · see citing works
MDMA alters emotional processing and facilitates positive social interaction
Wardle, M. C., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-014-3570-x · Cited by 96 · see citing works
How could MDMA (ecstasy) help anxiety disorders? A neurobiological rationale
Johansen, P., & Krebs, T. (2009) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881109102787 · Cited by 96 · see citing works
A Window into the Intoxicated Mind? Speech as an Index of Psychoactive Drug Effects
Bedi, G., Cecchi, G., Slezak, D. F., Carrillo, F., Sigman, M., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/npp.2014.80 · Cited by 88 · see citing works
No evidence that MDMA-induced enhancement of emotional empathy is related to peripheral oxytocin levels or 5-HT1a receptor activation
Kuypers, K. P. C., de la Torre, R., Farre, M., Yubero-Lahoz, S., Dziobek, I., Van den Bos, W., & Ramaekers, J. G. (2014) · PLoS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0100719 · Cited by 88 · see citing works
MDMA decreases the effects of simulated social rejection
Frye, C. G., Wardle, M. C., Norman, G. J., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior · doi:10.1016/j.pbb.2013.11.030 · Cited by 85 · see citing works
Prosocial effects of MDMA: A measure of generosity
Kirkpatrick, M. G., Delton, A. W., Robertson, T. E., & de Wit, H. (2015) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881115573806 · Cited by 85 · see citing works
Harms and benefits associated with psychoactive drugs: findings of an international survey of active drug users
Morgan, C. J. A., Noronha, L. A., Muetzelfeldt, M., Feilding, A., & Curran, H. V. (2013) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881113477744 · Cited by 83 · see citing works
Serotonin (1A) receptor involvement in acute 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) facilitation of social interaction in the rat
Morley, K. C., Arnold, J. C., & McGregor, I. S. (2005) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2005.04.009 · Cited by 79 · see citing works
Physiological and Subjective Responses to Controlled Oral 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Administration
Kolbrich, E. A., Goodwin, R. S., Gorelick, D. A., Hayes, R. J., Stein, E. A., & Huestis, M. A. (2008) · Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1097/jcp.0b013e31817ef470 · Cited by 77 · see citing works
Psychomotor stimulant effects ofd-amphetamine, MDMA and PCP: aggressive and schedule-controlled behavior in mice
Miczek, K. A., & Haney, M. (1994) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/bf02245077 · Cited by 71 · see citing works
Can the Severity of Dependence Scale Be Usefully Applied to ‘Ecstasy’?
Bruno, R., Matthews, A. J., Topp, L., Degenhardt, L. J., Gomez, R., & Dunn, M. (2009) · Neuropsychobiology · doi:10.1159/000253550 · Cited by 70 · see citing works
Effects of the α2-Adrenergic Agonist Clonidine on the Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine in Healthy Volunteers
Hysek, C. M., Brugger, R., Simmler, L. D., Bruggisser, M., Donzelli, M., Grouzmann, E., Hoener, M. C., & Liechti, M. E. (2011) · Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics · doi:10.1124/jpet.111.188425 · Cited by 69 · see citing works
Intimate insight: MDMA changes how people talk about significant others
Baggott, M. J., Kirkpatrick, M. G., Bedi, G., & de Wit, H. (2015) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881115581962 · Cited by 65 · see citing works
Ecstasy: the complete guide: a comprehensive look at the risks and benefits of MDMA
(2002) · Choice Reviews Online · doi:10.5860/choice.39-5222 · Cited by 63 · see citing works
Quitting Ecstasy: An Investigation of Why People Stop Taking the Drug and Their Subsequent Mental Health
Verheyden, S. L., Maidment, R., & Curran, H. V. (2003) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881103174014 · Cited by 62 · see citing works
Discriminative stimulus effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in humans trained to discriminate among d-amphetamine, meta-chlorophenylpiperazine and placebo
Johanson, C.-E., Kilbey, M., Gatchalian, K., & Tancer, M. (2006) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2005.05.003 · Cited by 58 · see citing works
α1-Adrenergic Receptors Contribute to the Acute Effects of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine in Humans
Hysek, C. M., Fink, A. E., Simmler, L. D., Donzelli, M., Grouzmann, E., & Liechti, M. E. (2013) · Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1097/jcp.0b013e3182979d32 · Cited by 56 · see citing works
Self-reported prevalence of dependence of MDMA compared to cocaine, mephedrone and ketamine among a sample of recreational poly-drug users
Tervonen, H. E., Tacke, U., & WINSTOCK, A. R. (2014) · International Journal of Drug Policy · doi:10.1016/j.drugpo.2014.07.004 · Cited by 54 · see citing works
Acute behavioural and neurotoxic effects of MDMA plus cocaine in adolescent mice
Daza‐Losada, M., Rodríguez‐Arias, M., Maldonado, C., Aguilar, M. A., Guerri, C., & Miñarro, J. (2008) · Neurotoxicology and Teratology · doi:10.1016/j.ntt.2008.07.005 · Cited by 53 · see citing works
‘Ecstasy’ as a social drug: MDMA preferentially affects responses to emotional stimuli with social content
Wardle, M. C., Kirkpatrick, M. G., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience · doi:10.1093/scan/nsu035 · Cited by 52 · see citing works
MDMA-induced c-Fos expression in oxytocin-containing neurons is blocked by pretreatment with the 5-HT-1A receptor antagonist WAY 100635
Hunt, G. E., McGregor, I. S., Cornish, J. L., & Callaghan, P. D. (2011) · Brain Research Bulletin · doi:10.1016/j.brainresbull.2011.06.011 · Cited by 51 · see citing works
MDMA (‘ecstasy’) exhibits an anxiogenic-like activity in social encounters between male mice
Maldonado, E., & Navarro, J. F. (2001) · Pharmacological Research · doi:10.1006/phrs.2001.0824 · Cited by 50 · see citing works
Behavioral profile of 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) in agonistic encounters between male mice
Navarro, J. F., & Maldonado, E. (1999) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/s0278-5846(98)00100-6 · Cited by 49 · see citing works
Neural correlates of MDMA (“Ecstasy”)-induced social interaction in rats
Thompson, M. R., Hunt, G. E., & McGregor, I. S. (2008) · Social Neuroscience · doi:10.1080/17470910802045042 · Cited by 48 · see citing works
Anxiogenic-like activity of 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (“Ecstasy”) in the social interaction test is accompanied by an increase of c-fos expression in mice amygdala
Navarro, J. F. (2003) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2003.10.016 · Cited by 47 · see citing works
Partial lesion of the serotonergic system by a single dose of MDMA results in behavioural disinhibition and enhances acute MDMA-induced social behaviour on the social interaction test
Andó, R. D., Benkő, A., Ferrington, L., Kirilly, E., Kelly, P. A. T., & Bagdy, G. (2006) · Neuropharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2005.12.010 · Cited by 46 · see citing works
High ambient temperature increases 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “ecstasy”)-induced Fos expression in a region-specific manner
Hargreaves, G. A., Hunt, G. E., Cornish, J. L., & McGregor, I. S. (2007) · Neuroscience · doi:10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.12.023 · Cited by 45 · see citing works
MDMA: a social drug in a social context
Kirkpatrick, M. G., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-014-3752-6 · Cited by 42 · see citing works
Oxytocin and MDMA (‘Ecstasy’) enhance social reward in rats
Ramos, L., Hicks, C., Caminer, A., Goodwin, J., & McGregor, I. S. (2015) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-015-3899-9 · Cited by 40 · see citing works
Effects of methylphenidate and MDMA on appraisal of erotic stimuli and intimate relationships
Schmid, Y., Hysek, C. M., Preller, K. H., Bosch, O. G., Bilderbeck, A. C., Rogers, R. D., Quednow, B. B., & Liechti, M. E. (2014) · European Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.euroneuro.2014.11.020 · Cited by 39 · see citing works
3 cases of primary intracranial hemorrhage associated with “Molly”, a purified form of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)
Kahn, D. E., Ferraro, N. C., & Benveniste, R. J. (2012) · Journal of the Neurological Sciences · doi:10.1016/j.jns.2012.08.031 · Cited by 35 · see citing works
What's in a Label? Ecstasy Sellers' Perceptions of Pill Brands
Duterte, M., Jacinto, C., Sales, P., & Murphy, S. (2009) · Journal of Psychoactive Drugs · doi:10.1080/02791072.2009.10400672 · Cited by 32 · see citing works
Anxiogenic activity of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy): An experimental study
Bhattacharya, S. K., Bhattacharya, A., & Ghosal, S. (1998) · Biogenic Amines · Cited by 29 · see citing works
Effects of acute nicotine and alcohol on the rating of attractiveness in social smokers and alcohol drinkers
Attwood, A. S., Penton‐Voak, I. S., Goodwin, C., & Munafo, M. R. (2012) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2012.03.014 · Cited by 27 · see citing works
The effect of the ecstasy ‘come-down’ on the diagnosis of ecstasy dependence
McKetin, R., Copeland, J., Norberg, M. M., Bruno, R., Hides, L. M., & Khawar, L. (2014) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.02.697 · Cited by 27 · see citing works
Acute and long-term effects of a single dose of MDMA on aggression in Dark Agouti rats
Kirilly, E., Benkő, A., Ferrington, L., Andó, R. D., Kelly, P. A. T., & Bagdy, G. (2005) · The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1017/s146114570500581x · Cited by 26 · see citing works
Reduced sensitivity to MDMA-induced facilitation of social behaviour in MDMA pre-exposed rats
Thompson, M. R., Callaghan, P. D., Hunt, G. E., & McGregor, I. S. (2008) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2008.01.014 · Cited by 25 · see citing works
Inhibition of MDMA-induced increase in cortisol does not prevent acute impairment of verbal memory
Kuypers, K., de la Torre, R., Farré, M., Pujadas, M., & Ramaekers, J. (2013) · British Journal of Pharmacology · doi:10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02196.x · Cited by 24 · see citing works
Young adults' trajectories of Ecstasy use: A population based study
Smirnov, A., Najman, J. M., Hayatbakhsh, M. R., Plotnikova, M., Wells, H., Legosz, M., & Kemp, R. (2013) · Addictive Behaviors · doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2013.06.018 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Differential effects of modafinil, methamphetamine, and MDMA on agonistic behavior in male mice
Máchalová, A., Šlais, K., Vršková, D., & Šulcová, A. (2012) · Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior · doi:10.1016/j.pbb.2012.04.013 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
MDMA intoxication and verbal memory performance: a placebo-controlled pharmaco-MRI study
Kuypers, K. P. C., Wingen, M., Heinecke, A., Formisano, E., & Ramaekers, J. G. (2011) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881111405361 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Aggressive behavior and jamming avoidance response in the weakly electric fish Gymnotus carapo: Effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)
Capurro, A., Reyes-Parada, M. I., Olazábal, D. E., Perrone, R., Silveira, R., & Macadar, O. (1997) · Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A Physiology · doi:10.1016/s0300-9629(97)00132-1 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
Effects of group exposure on single injection-induced behavioral sensitization to drugs of abuse in mice
Procópio‐Souza, R., Fukushiro, D. F., Trombin, T. F., Wuo‐Silva, R., Zanlorenci, L. H. F., Lima, A. J. O., Ribeiro, L. T. C., Corrêa, J. M. R. M., Marinho, E. A. V., Kameda, S. R., et al. (2011) · Drug and Alcohol Dependence · doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2011.04.017 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
Depression and dysphoria effects on the interpersonal perception of negative and positive moods and caring relationships: Effects of antidepressants, amphetamine, and methylphenidate
Janowsky, D. S. (2003) · Current Psychiatry Reports · doi:10.1007/s11920-003-0084-3 · Cited by 14 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Speech analysis was also used by Wardle and de Wit (2014)to assess the effects of MDMA using a version of the Interpersonal Perception task(Janowsky, 2003).”
Decreased recognition of negative affect after selective serotonin reuptake inhibition is dependent on genotype
Hinkelmann, K., Dragoi, L., Gompf, J., Muhtz, C., Demiralay, C., Yassouridis, A., Wiedemann, K., & Kellner, M. B. (2010) · Psychiatry Research · doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2010.03.008 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
The Varieties of Ecstasy Experience: A Phenomenological Ethnography
Leneghan, S. (2013) · Journal of Psychoactive Drugs · doi:10.1080/02791072.2013.826561 · Cited by 7 · see citing works

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 1

Nichols D Yenson R Metzner R The great entactogen empathogen debate MAPS Bulletin 1993 4 47 49

Sorted by citations

REBUS and the anarchic brain: Toward a unified model of the brain action of psychedelics
Carhart-Harris, R. L., & Friston, K. J. (2019) · Pharmacological Reviews · doi:10.1124/pr.118.017160 · Cited by 1,180 · see citing works
Psychedelics and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Reiff, C. M., Richman, E. E., Nemeroff, C. B., Carpenter, L. L., Widge, A. S., Rodriguez, C. I., Kalin, N. H., McDonald, W. M., & and the Work Group on Biomarkers and Novel Treatments, A. D. O. T. A. P. A. C. O. R. (2020) · American Journal of Psychiatry · doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.2019.19010035 · Cited by 649 · see citing works
MDMA-assisted therapy for moderate to severe PTSD: A randomized, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial
Mitchell, J. M., Ot’alora G., M., van der Kolk, B., Shannon, S., Bogenschutz, M., Gelfand, Y., Paleos, C., Nicholas, C. R., Quevedo, S., Balliett, B., et al. (2023) · Nature Medicine · doi:10.1038/s41591-023-02565-4 · Cited by 455 · see citing works
Social brain, social dysfunction and social withdrawal
Porcelli, S., van der Wee, N. J. A., van der Werff, S. J., Aghajani, M., Glennon, J. C., van Heukelum, S., Mogavero, F., Lobo, A., Olivera, F. J. N., Lobo, E., et al. (2018) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.09.012 · Cited by 397 · see citing works
Reduction in social anxiety after MDMA-assisted psychotherapy with autistic adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study
Danforth, A. L., Grob, C. S., Struble, C., Feduccia, A. A., Walker, N., Jerome, L., Yazar-Klosinski, B., & Emerson, A. (2018) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-018-5010-9 · Cited by 280 · see citing works
Hallucinogens in Mental Health: Preclinical and Clinical Studies on LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine
Gregorio, D. D., Aguilar‐Valles, A., Preller, K. H., Heifets, B. D., Hibicke, M., Mitchell, J., & Gobbi, G. (2020) · Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1523/jneurosci.1659-20.2020 · Cited by 261 · see citing works
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted psychotherapy for treatment of chronic posttraumatic stress disorder: A randomized phase 2 controlled trial
Marcela Ot’alora, G., Grigsby, J., Poulter, B., Derveer, J. W. V., Giron, S. G., Jerome, L., Feduccia, A. A., Hamilton, S., Yazar‐Klosinski, B., Emerson, A., et al. (2018) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881118806297 · Cited by 233 · see citing works
Clinical applications of hallucinogens: a review
Garcia-Romeu, A., Kersgaard, B., & Addy, P. H. (2016) · Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1037/pha0000084 · Cited by 201 · see citing works
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for treatment of anxiety and other psychological distress related to life-threatening illnesses: a randomized pilot study
Wolfson, P. E., Andries, J., Feduccia, A. A., Jerome, L., Wang, J. B., Williams, E., Carlin, S. C., Sola, E., Hamilton, S., Yazar-Klosinski, B., et al. (2020) · Scientific Reports · doi:10.1038/s41598-020-75706-1 · Cited by 169 · see citing works
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Long-term follow-up outcomes of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for treatment of PTSD: a longitudinal pooled analysis of six phase 2 trials
Jerome, L., Feduccia, A. A., Wang, J. B., Hamilton, S., Yazar-Klosinski, B., Emerson, A., Mithoefer, M. C., & Doblin, R. (2020) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-020-05548-2 · Cited by 159 · see citing works
Retracted
Safety pharmacology of acute MDMA administration in healthy subjects
Vizeli, P., & Liechti, M. E. (2017) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881117691569 · Cited by 149 · see citing works
A review of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy
Sessa, B., Higbed, L., & Nutt, D. (2019) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00138 · Cited by 141 · see citing works
Distinct neural mechanisms for the prosocial and rewarding properties of MDMA
Heifets, B. D., Salgado, J. S., Taylor, M. D., Hoerbelt, P., Cardozo Pinto, D. F., Steinberg, E. E., Walsh, J. J., Sze, J. Y., & Malenka, R. C. (2019) · Science Translational Medicine · doi:10.1126/scitranslmed.aaw6435 · Cited by 120 · see citing works
Direct comparison of the acute subjective, emotional, autonomic, and endocrine effects of MDMA, methylphenidate, and modafinil in healthy subjects
Dolder, P. C., Müller, F., Schmid, Y., Borgwardt, S. J., & Liechti, M. E. (2018) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-017-4650-5 · Cited by 117 · see citing works
The effects of MDMA on socio-emotional processing: Does MDMA differ from other stimulants
Bershad, A. K., Miller, M. A., Baggott, M. J., & de Wit, H. (2016) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881116663120 · Cited by 106 · see citing works
Dark Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine
Dunlap, L. E., Andrews, A. M., & Olson, D. E. (2018) · ACS Chemical Neuroscience · doi:10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00155 · Cited by 106 · see citing works
Multifaceted empathy of healthy volunteers after single doses of MDMA: A pooled sample of placebo-controlled studies
Kuypers, K. P., Dolder, P. C., Ramaekers, J. G., & Liechti, M. E. (2017) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881117699617 · Cited by 89 · see citing works
“Previous placebo-controlled experimental studies have also shown that a single dose of MDMA can increase sociability and different aspects of empathy (Kamilar-Britt and Bedi, 2015).”
Background
MDMA-assisted therapy significantly reduces eating disorder symptoms in a randomized placebo-controlled trial of adults with severe PTSD
Brewerton, T. D., Wang, J. B., Lafrance, A., Pamplin, C., Mithoefer, M., Yazar-Klosinki, B., Emerson, A., & Doblin, R. (2022) · Journal of Psychiatric Research · doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.03.008 · Cited by 86 · see citing works
Potential Psychiatric Uses for MDMA
Yazar‐Klosinski, B., & Mithoefer, M. C. (2016) · Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics · doi:10.1002/cpt.565 · Cited by 80 · see citing works
The Psychedelic Future of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment
Zaretsky, T. G., Jagodnik, K. M., Barsic, R., Antonio, J. H., Bonanno, P. A., MacLeod, C., Pierce, C., Carney, H., Morrison, M. T., Saylor, C. F., et al. (2024) · Current Neuropharmacology · doi:10.2174/1570159x22666231027111147 · Cited by 85 · see citing works
Progress and promise for the MDMA drug development program
Feduccia, A. A., Holland, J. A., & Mithoefer, M. C. (2017) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-017-4779-2 · Cited by 78 · see citing works
Modulation of Social Cognition via Hallucinogens and “Entactogens”
Preller, K. H., & Vollenweider, F. X. (2019) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00881 · Cited by 71 · see citing works
Effects of MDMA on attention to positive social cues and pleasantness of affective touch
Bershad, A. K., Mayo, L. M., Hedger, K. V., McGlone, F. P., Walker, S. C., & de Wit, H. (2019) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/s41386-019-0402-z · Cited by 73 · see citing works
Therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelics and entactogens
Heifets, B., & Olson, D. E. (2023) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/s41386-023-01666-5 · Cited by 64 · see citing works
Positive psychology in the investigation of psychedelics and entactogens: a critical review
Jungaberle, H., Thal, S., Zeuch, A., Rougemont-Bücking, A., von Heyden, M., Aicher, H., & Scheidegger, M. (2018) · Neuropharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.06.034 · Cited by 70 · see citing works
Neural circuits regulating prosocial behaviors
Walsh, J. J., Christoffel, D. J., & Malenka, R. C. (2023) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/s41386-022-01348-8 · Cited by 72 · see citing works
Ethical and Practical Considerations for the Use of Psychedelics in Psychiatry
Barber, G., & Dike, C. C. (2023) · Psychiatric Services · doi:10.1176/appi.ps.20220525 · Cited by 66 · see citing works
Psychological mechanisms and functions of 5-HT and SSRIs in potential therapeutic change: Lessons from the serotonergic modulation of action selection, learning, affect, and social cognition
Roberts, C., Sahakian, B. J., & Robbins, T. W. (2020) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.09.001 · Cited by 61 · see citing works
MDMA/ecstasy use and psilocybin use are associated with lowered odds of psychological distress and suicidal thoughts in a sample of US adults
Jones, G. M., & Nock, M. K. (2022) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/02698811211058923 · Cited by 62 · see citing works
Systemic enhancement of serotonin signaling reverses social deficits in multiple mouse models for ASD
Walsh, J. J., Llorach, P., Cardozo Pinto, D. F., Wenderski, W., Christoffel, D. J., Salgado, J. S., Heifets, B. D., Crabtree, G. R., & Malenka, R. C. (2021) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/s41386-021-01091-6 · Cited by 56 · see citing works
Social withdrawal: An initially adaptive behavior that becomes maladaptive when expressed excessively
Ike, K. G. O., de Boer, S. F., Buwalda, B., & Kas, M. J. (2020) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.06.030 · Cited by 61 · see citing works
Diminished positive affect and traumatic stress: A biobehavioral review and commentary on trauma affective neuroscience
Fonzo, G. A. (2018) · Neurobiology of Stress · doi:10.1016/j.ynstr.2018.10.002 · Cited by 56 · see citing works
Selective filtering of excitatory inputs to nucleus accumbens by dopamine and serotonin
Christoffel, D. J., Walsh, J. J., Hoerbelt, P., Heifets, B. D., Llorach, P., Lopez, R. C., Ramakrishnan, C., Deisseroth, K., & Malenka, R. C. (2021) · Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences · doi:10.1073/pnas.2106648118 · Cited by 54 · see citing works
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in Psychiatry
Schenk, S., & Newcombe, D. A. L. (2018) · Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1097/jcp.0000000000000962 · Cited by 52 · see citing works
Correlation between Blood and Oral Fluid Psychoactive Drug Concentrations and Cognitive Impairment in Driving under the Influence of Drugs
Busardò, F. P., Pichini, S., Pellegrini, M., Montana, A., Faro, A. F. L., Zaami, S., & Graziano, S. (2017) · Current Neuropharmacology · doi:10.2174/1570159x15666170828162057 · Cited by 52 · see citing works
Separating the agony from ecstasy: R(–)-3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine has prosocial and therapeutic-like effects without signs of neurotoxicity in mice
Curry, D. W., Young, M. B., Tran, A., Daoud, G. E., & Howell, L. L. (2017) · Neuropharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.003 · Cited by 50 · see citing works
Posttraumatic Growth After MDMA‐Assisted Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Gorman, I., Belser, A. B., Jerome, L., Hennigan, C., Shechet, B., Hamilton, S., Yazar‐Klosinski, B., Emerson, A., & Feduccia, A. A. (2020) · Journal of Traumatic Stress · doi:10.1002/jts.22479 · Cited by 44 · see citing works
Sleep Quality Improvements After MDMA‐Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Ponté, L., Jerome, L., Hamilton, S., Mithoefer, M. C., Yazar‐Klosinski, B., Vermetten, E. H. G. J. M., & Feduccia, A. A. (2021) · Journal of Traumatic Stress · doi:10.1002/jts.22696 · Cited by 44 · see citing works
MDMA as a Probe and Treatment for Social Behaviors
Heifets, B. D., & Malenka, R. C. (2016) · Cell · doi:10.1016/j.cell.2016.06.045 · Cited by 42 · see citing works
(±)-MDMA and its enantiomers: potential therapeutic advantages of R(−)-MDMA
Pitts, E. G., Curry, D. W., Hampshire, K. N., Young, M. B., & Howell, L. L. (2017) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-017-4812-5 · Cited by 40 · see citing works
Beyond ecstasy: Alternative entactogens to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine with potential applications in psychotherapy
Oeri, H. E. (2020) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881120920420 · Cited by 41 · see citing works
Acute effects of MDMA on trust, cooperative behaviour and empathy: A double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment
Borissova, A., Ferguson, B., Wall, M. B., Morgan, C. J. A., Carhart-Harris, R. L., Bolstridge, M., Bloomfield, M., Williams, T. M., Feilding, A., Murphy, K., et al. (2020) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/0269881120926673 · Cited by 38 · see citing works
MDMA interactions with pharmaceuticals and drugs of abuse
Papaseit, E., Pérez‐Mañá, C., Torrens, M., Farré, A., Poyatos, L., Hladun, O., Sanvisens, A., Muga, R., & Farré, M. (2020) · Expert Opinion on Drug Metabolism & Toxicology · doi:10.1080/17425255.2020.1749262 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
A proposed mechanism for the MDMA-mediated extinction of traumatic memories in PTSD patients treated with MDMA-assisted therapy
Sottile, R., & Vida, T. (2022) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2022.991753 · Cited by 35 · see citing works
MDMA and memory, addiction, and depression: dose-effect analysis
Pantoni, M. M., Kim, J. L., Alstyne, K. R. V., & Anagnostaras, S. (2022) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-022-06086-9 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
A review of the effects of nicotine on social functioning.
Martin, L. M., & Sayette, M. A. (2018) · Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1037/pha0000208 · Cited by 37 · see citing works
The Acute Effects of Psychoactive Drugs on Emotional Episodic Memory Encoding, Consolidation, and Retrieval
Doss, M. K., de Wit, H., & Gallo, D. A. (2022) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105188 · Cited by 34 · see citing works
Detection of acute 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) effects across protocols using automated natural language processing
Agurto, C., Cecchi, G., Norel, R., Ostrand, R., Kirkpatrick, M. G., Baggott, M. J., Wardle, M. C., de Wit, H., & Bedi, G. (2020) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/s41386-020-0620-4 · Cited by 31 · see citing works
Drug-induced social connection: both MDMA and methamphetamine increase feelings of connectedness during controlled dyadic conversations
Molla, H. M., Lee, R., Lyubomirsky, S., & de Wit, H. (2023) · Scientific Reports · doi:10.1038/s41598-023-43156-0 · Cited by 30 · see citing works
Serotonin Heteroreceptor Complexes and Their Integration of Signals in Neurons and Astroglia—Relevance for Mental Diseases
Borroto‐Escuela, D. O., Ambrogini, P., Narváez, M., Liberto, V. D., Beggiato, S., Ferraro, L., Fores‐Pons, R., Alvarez‐Contino, J. E., López‐Salas, A., Mudò, G., et al. (2021) · Cells · doi:10.3390/cells10081902 · Cited by 29 · see citing works
Toward a New Science of Psychedelic Social Psychology: The Effects of MDMA (Ecstasy) on Social Connection
Lyubomirsky, S. (2022) · Perspectives on Psychological Science · doi:10.1177/17456916211055369 · Cited by 30 · see citing works
Additive effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and compassionate imagery on self-compassion in recreational users of ecstasy
Kamboj, S. K., Walldén, Y. S. E., Falconer, C. J., Alotaibi, M. R., Blagbrough, I. S., Husbands, S. M., & Freeman, T. P. (2018) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-017-0849-0 · Cited by 28 · see citing works
Dissecting neural mechanisms of prosocial behaviors
Walsh, J. J., Christoffel, D. J., Wu, X., Pomrenze, M. B., & Malenka, R. C. (2020) · Current Opinion in Neurobiology · doi:10.1016/j.conb.2020.11.006 · Cited by 29 · see citing works
Can psychedelics enhance group psychotherapy? A discussion on the therapeutic factors
Ponomarenko, P., Seragnoli, F., Calder, A. E., Oehen, P., & Hasler, G. (2023) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/02698811231155117 · Cited by 27 · see citing works
Knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about psilocybin and MDMA as novel therapies among U.S. healthcare professionals
Wang, E. Y., Mathai, D. S., Gukasyan, N., Nayak, S. M., & Garcia‐Romeu, A. (2024) · Scientific Reports · doi:10.1038/s41598-024-78736-1 · Cited by 26 · see citing works
Potential processes of change in MDMA‐Assisted therapy for social anxiety disorder: Enhanced memory reconsolidation, self‐transcendence, and therapeutic relationships
Luoma, J. B., Shahar, B., Lear, M. K., Pilecki, B. C., & Wagner, A. (2021) · Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental · doi:10.1002/hup.2824 · Cited by 27 · see citing works
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Mithoefer, M. C., Jerome, L., & Monson, C. M. (2017) · New England Journal of Medicine · doi:10.1056/nejmc1709522 · Cited by 25 · see citing works
Social Cognition and Interaction in Chronic Users of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “Ecstasy”)
Wunderli, M. D., Vonmoos, M., Treichler, L., Zeller, C., Dziobek, I., Kræmer, T., Baumgartner, M. R., Seifritz, E., & Quednow, B. B. (2017) · The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1093/ijnp/pyx098 · Cited by 22 · see citing works
Comparative psychopharmacology of autism and psychotic-affective disorders suggests new targets for treatment
Crespi, B. J. (2019) · Evolution Medicine and Public Health · doi:10.1093/emph/eoz022 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Ritanserin-sensitive receptors modulate the prosocial and the anxiolytic effect of MDMA derivatives, DOB and PMA, in zebrafish
Ponzoni, L., Sala, M., & Braida, D. (2016) · Behavioural Brain Research · doi:10.1016/j.bbr.2016.08.009 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD in adolescents: rationale, potential, risks, and considerations
Kangaslampi, S., & Zijlmans, J. (2023) · European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry · doi:10.1007/s00787-023-02310-9 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, patient vulnerability and abuses of power
Meikle, S. E., Carter, O. L., & Bedi, G. (2023) · Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry · doi:10.1177/00048674231200164 · Cited by 22 · see citing works
Psychedelics and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Reiff, C. M., Richman, E. E., Nemeroff, C. B., Carpenter, L. L., Widge, A. S., Rodríguez, C. I., Kalin, N. H., & McDonald, W. M. (2021) · FOCUS The Journal of Lifelong Learning in Psychiatry · doi:10.1176/appi.focus.19104 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
The 2014 Philip S. Portoghese Medicinal Chemistry Lectureship: The “Phenylalkylaminome” with a Focus on Selected Drugs of Abuse
Glennon, R. A. (2017) · Journal of Medicinal Chemistry · doi:10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b00085 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Increases Affiliative Behaviors in Squirrel Monkeys in a Serotonin 2A Receptor-Dependent Manner
Pitts, E. G., Minerva, A. R., Chandler, E. B., Kohn, J. N., Logun, M. T., Sulima, A., Rice, K. C., & Howell, L. L. (2017) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/npp.2017.80 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Key interindividual determinants in MDMA pharmacodynamics
Papaseit, E., Torrens, M., Pérez‐Mañá, C., Muga, R., & Farré, M. (2018) · Expert Opinion on Drug Metabolism & Toxicology · doi:10.1080/17425255.2018.1424832 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine is a connectogen with empathogenic, entactogenic, and still further connective properties: It is time to reconcile “the great entactogen-empathogen debate
Stocker, K., & Liechti, M. E. (2024) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/02698811241265352 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Oxytocin, cortisol and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine: neurohormonal aspects of recreational ‘ecstasy’
Parrott, A. C. (2016) · Behavioural Pharmacology · doi:10.1097/fbp.0000000000000262 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Does ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) induce subjective feelings of social connection in humans? A multilevel meta-analysis
Regan, A., Margolis, S., de Wit, H., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2021) · PLoS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0258849 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Role of 5-HT1A receptors in the basolateral amygdala on 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-induced prosocial effects in mice
Esaki, H., Sasaki, Y., Nishitani, N., Kamada, H., Mukai, S., Ohshima, Y., Nakada, S., Ni, X., Deyama, S., & Kaneda, K. (2023) · European Journal of Pharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175653 · Cited by 18 · see citing works
Current Perspectives on the Clinical Research and Medicalization of Psychedelic Drugs for Addiction Treatments: Safety, Efficacy, Limitations and Challenges
Gomez-Escolar, A., Folch‐Sanchez, D., Stefaniuk, J., Swithenbank, Z., Nisa, A., Braddick, F., Chaudhary, N. I., van der Meer, P. B., & Batalla, A. (2024) · CNS Drugs · doi:10.1007/s40263-024-01101-3 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Oxytocin and the Role of Fluid Restriction in MDMA-Induced Hyponatremia
Atila, C., Straumann, I., Vizeli, P., Beck, J., Monnerat, S., Holze, F., Liechti, M. E., & Christ‐Crain, M. (2024) · JAMA Network Open · doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.45278 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
Of mice and men on MDMA: A translational comparison of the neuropsychobiological effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (‘Ecstasy’)
Aguilar, M. A., García-Pardo, M. P., & Parrott, A. C. (2019) · Brain Research · doi:10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146556 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
Effects of alcohol and psychostimulants on the vasopressin system: Behavioural implications
Godino, A., & Renard, G. M. (2018) · Journal of Neuroendocrinology · doi:10.1111/jne.12611 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine as a Psychiatric Treatment
Bedi, G. (2018) · JAMA Psychiatry · doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2018.0063 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
Facing death, returning to life: A qualitative analysis of MDMA-assisted therapy for anxiety associated with life-threatening illness
Barone, W. P., Mitsunaga-Whitten, M., Blaustein, L. O., Perl, P., Swank, M., & Swift, T. C. (2022) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2022.944849 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
Trauma under psychedelics: how psychoactive substances impact trauma processing
Netzer, O., Magal, N., Stern, Y., Polinsky, T., Gross, R., Admon, R., & Salomon, R. (2025) · World Psychiatry · doi:10.1002/wps.21363 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
The Role of Neurotransmitters in Violence and Aggression
Miczek, K. A., DeBold, J. F., Gobrogge, K. L., Newman, E. L., & de Almeida, R. M. M. (2017) · The Wiley Handbook of Violence and Aggression · doi:10.1002/9781119057574.whbva019 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
Sensitization to the Prosocial Effects of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)
Curry, D. W., Berro, L. F., Belkoff, A. R., Sulima, A., Rice, K. C., & Howell, L. L. (2019) · Neuropharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.03.017 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
5-HT2C receptors in the nucleus accumbens constrain the rewarding effects of MDMA
Pomrenze, M. B., Vaillancourt, S., Salgado, J. S., Raymond, K. B., Llorach, P., Sacai, H., Rijsketic, D. R., Hietamies, T. M., Touponse, G. C., Pinto, D. F. C., et al. (2025) · Molecular Psychiatry · doi:10.1038/s41380-025-03128-4 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
5-HTTLPR polymorphism is associated with nostalgia proneness: The role of neuroticism
Luo, Y. L. L., Welker, K. M., Way, B. M., DeWall, N., Bushman, B. J., Wildschut, T., & Sedikides, C. (2017) · Social Neuroscience · doi:10.1080/17470919.2017.1414717 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
Psychedelic medicines for mood disorders: current evidence and clinical considerations.
Sarris, J. J., Rubiano, D. P., Day, K., Coelho, N. L. G., & Perkins, D. (2022) · PubMed · doi:10.1097/yco.0000000000000759 · Cited by 12 · see citing works
Chemical cousins with contrasting behavioural profiles: MDMA users and methamphetamine users differ in social-cognitive functions and aggression
Zacher, A., Zimmermann, J., Cole, D. M., Friedli, N., Opitz, A., Baumgartner, M. R., Steuer, A. E., Verdejo‐García, A., Stock, A., Beste, C., et al. (2024) · European Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.euroneuro.2024.04.010 · Cited by 12 · see citing works
Psychedelics as Reemerging Treatments for Anxiety Disorders: Possibilities and Challenges in a Nascent Field
King, F., & Hammond, R. (2021) · FOCUS The Journal of Lifelong Learning in Psychiatry · doi:10.1176/appi.focus.20200047 · Cited by 12 · see citing works
MDMA to Treat PTSD in Adults
Latimer, D. R., Stocker, M. D., Sayers, K., Green, J., Kaye, A. M., Abd-Elsayed, A. A., Cornett, E. M., Kaye, A. D., Varrassi, G., Viswanath, O., et al. (2025) · Psychopharmacology Bulletin · doi:10.64719/pb.4414 · Cited by 12 · see citing works
MDMA does not alter responses to the Trier Social Stress Test in humans
Bershad, A. K., Miller, M. A., & de Wit, H. (2017) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-017-4621-x · Cited by 12 · see citing works
Examining the Role of Oxytocinergic Signaling and Neuroinflammatory Markers in the Therapeutic Effects of MDMA in a Rat Model for PTSD
Avgana, H., Toledano, R. S., & Akirav, I. (2024) · Pharmaceuticals · doi:10.3390/ph17070846 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
Subjective long-term emotional and social effects of recreational MDMA use: the role of setting and intentions
Elmer, T., Vannoy, T. K., Studerus, E., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2024) · Scientific Reports · doi:10.1038/s41598-024-51355-6 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
The Effects of Drugs on Behavior Maintained by Social Contact: Role of Monoamines in Social Reinforcement
Sharp, J. L., & Smith, M. A. (2022) · Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience · doi:10.3389/fnbeh.2021.805139 · Cited by 10 · see citing works
Opioids and the hormone oxytocin
Kovatsi, L., & Nikolaou, K. (2019) · Vitamins and hormones · doi:10.1016/bs.vh.2019.05.003 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Psychoactive substances for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders
Zhen, Z., Sun, X., Yuan, S., & Zhang, J. (2024) · Asian Journal of Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104193 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Acute subjective effects of psychedelics in naturalistic group settings prospectively predict longitudinal improvements in trauma symptoms, trait shame, and connectedness among adults with childhood maltreatment histories
Healy, C. J., Frazier, A., Kirsch, S., Sanford, A., Garcia‐Romeu, A., Todman, M., Varon, J. P., & D'Andrea, W. M. (2025) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2025.111361 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Vulnerability factors for mephedrone-induced conditioned place preference in rats—the impact of sex differences, social-conditioning and stress
Wronikowska‐Denysiuk, O., Zykubek, M., Kurach, Ł., Michalak, A., Boguszewska‐Czubara, A., & Budzyńska, B. (2021) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-021-05910-y · Cited by 9 · see citing works
MDMA enhances positive affective responses to social feedback
Bershad, A. K., Hsu, D. T., & de Wit, H. (2024) · Journal of Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1177/02698811231224153 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
The Non-Peptide Arginine-Vasopressin v1a Selective Receptor Antagonist, SR49059, Blocks the Rewarding, Prosocial, and Anxiolytic Effects of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and Its Derivatives in Zebra Fish
Ponzoni, L., Braida, D., Bondiolotti, G., & Sala, M. (2017) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00146 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
A proof-of-principle study of the short-term effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on tinnitus and neural connectivity
Searchfield, G. D., Poppe, T. N. E. R., Durai, M., Jensen, M., Kennedy, M. A., Maggo, S. D. S., Miller, A. L., Park, J., Russell, B., Shekhawat, G. S., et al. (2019) · International Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1080/00207454.2019.1702544 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Changing your mind: neuroplastic mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of psychedelics in depression, PTSD, and addiction
Palhas, M. L. C., Corne, R., & Mongeau, R. (2025) · Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2025.111533 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Lack of evidence for positive reinforcing and prosocial effects of MDMA in pair-housed male and female rats
Smith, M. A., Schmidt, K. T., Sharp, J. L., Pearson, T., Davis, A. L., Gibson, A. N., & Potter, K. M. (2021) · European Journal of Pharmacology · doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174646 · Cited by 8 · see citing works
A Systematic Review of the MDMA Model to Address Social Impairment in Autism
Chaliha, D. R., Mamo, J. C. L., Albrecht, M. A., Lam, V., Takechi, R., & Vaccarezza, M. (2021) · Current Neuropharmacology · doi:10.2174/1570159x19666210101130258 · Cited by 7 · see citing works
Better living through chemistry: MDMA’s prosocial mechanism as a starting point for improved therapeutics
Heifets, B. D., & Malenka, R. C. (2020) · Neuropsychopharmacology · doi:10.1038/s41386-020-00803-8 · Cited by 7 · see citing works

Effects of ±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) Administration on Social Emotional Processing in Humans
Bedi, G. (2011) · The Open Addiction Journal · doi:10.2174/1874941001104010008 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
MDMA enhances emotional empathy and prosocial behavior
Hysek, C. M., Schmid, Y., Simmler, L. D., Domes, G., Heinrichs, M., Eisenegger, C., Preller, K. H., Quednow, B. B., & Liechti, M. E. (2014) · Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience · doi:10.1093/scan/nst161 · Cited by 356 · see citing works
MDMA induces oxytocin release in humans
Dumont, G., Sweep, F. C. G. J., Steen, R. V. V. D., Hermsen, R., Touw, D. J., Buitelaar, J. K., & Verkes, R. (2008) · University of Groningen research database (University of Groningen / Centre for Information Technology)
MDMA alters emotional processing and facilitates positive social interaction
Wardle, M. C., & de Wit, H. (2014) · Psychopharmacology · doi:10.1007/s00213-014-3570-x · Cited by 96 · see citing works
Increased oxytocin concentrations and prosocial feelings in humans after ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) administration
Dumont, G. J. H., Sweep, F. C. G. J., van der Steen, R., Hermsen, R., Donders, A. R. T., Touw, D. J., van Gerven, J. M. A., Buitelaar, J. K., & Verkes, R. J. (2009) · Social Neuroscience · doi:10.1080/17470910802649470 · Cited by 238 · see citing works

Authors: Kamilar-Britt, P., & Bedi, G.
Affiliations: New York State Psychiatric Institute (US)
Corresponding author: Bedi, Gillinder
ORCID: Kamilar-Britt, Philip
Bedi, Gillinder
Venue: Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Published: 2015-10
Volume: 57
Pages: 433-446
ISSN: 0149-7634 (ISSN-L)
DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.08.016
PMC: PMC4678620
OpenAlex: W1810864195
Cited by: 163
References: 99
Citations by year: 2026: 11 · 2025: 24 · 2024: 23 · 2023: 15 · 2022: 13 · 2021: 15 · 2020: 14 · 2019: 12 · 2018: 13 · 2017: 16 · 2016: 7
FWCI: 1.72
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: green
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Licence: www.elsevier.com/tdm/userlicense/1.0/ (tdm)
Locations: Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews (publishedVersion)
PubMed (publishedVersion)
PubMed Central (acceptedVersion)
Funders: NIDA (DA029679, DA034877)
Topics: Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Psychedelics and Drug Studies
Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior
Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience › Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior
Keywords: MDMA, ecstasy, prosocial behavior, sociability, empathy, social affiliation, oxytocin, vasopressin, 5-HT1A receptor, social reward, aggression, social rejection, facial expression recognition, social approach, rodents
MeSH terms: Animals, Humans, Interpersonal Relations, Social Behavior, N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review

The prosocial effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): Controlled studies in humans and laboratory animals

Abstract

Integrity signals

Claims the paper makes

Claims other papers make about this one

Self-check

Cites

Cited by

Related

Record

About these checks