2001/09/01 by Alana Rae. Pentney · 1 citation
Psychology · Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics · Medicine · #Psychedelics and Drug Studies #Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis #Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research
paper · doi:10.1080/02791072.2001.10400568
openalex publication_date 2001/09/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
In existence for nearly a century, 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "Ecstasy") have gained quite a reputation. Perceived by some as dangerous neurotoxins, and by others as potential psychotherapeutics, these compounds have become a center of controversy among academics and law enforcement officials, and in the process have gained extensive media exposure. The classification of these drugs as illicit, controlled substances in the United States has not prevented their use, and MDMA, or Ecstasy, is currently one of the most popular substances used recreationally in North America. The scheduling of MDMA and MDA has, however, led to the distribution of contaminated, or falsely represented, Ecstasy tablets, and prevented responsible research into the detrimental and therapeutic effects of these drugs. A look at the history of these compounds suggests that they have the potential to be used safely as psychotherapeutic tools, and that the legal status of MDMA and MDA may be worth reconsidering.