Trials Suggest MDMA Could Soon Be Used to Treat PTSD

 Posted on September 11, 2018 in Uncategorized

The laws regarding drugs and alcohol in the United States have varied significantly throughout the years. For decades, marijuana was strictly against the law, but now thousands are able to legally buy marijuana for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Illinois decriminalized small quantities of marijuana in 2016. This reduced the penalty for possessing less than 10 grams of cannabis to a moderate fine comparable to a traffic ticket. Now, legislators and researchers are turning their attention to methylenedioxymethamphetamine, better known as MDMA, ecstasy, or Molly. MDMA is a psychoactive drug which has been illegally consumed in the U.S for decades, but only recently is being scrutinized for medicinal purposes.

Party Drug May Be Breakthrough Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Advocates of the drug are celebrating after the Food and Drug Administration officially granted "breakthrough therapy" status for the drug MDMA. Of course, this does not mean that the drug is now legal or that there are no risks associated with its consumption. The decision by the FDA makes it easier for researchers to use clinical trials to test the drug’s ability to treat individuals with PTSD. In previous clinical trials, MDMA has provided significant relief to those suffering from PTSD, a mental disorder caused by extreme trauma. Sufferers experience symptoms including violent flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

MDMA Continues to Be Illegal in Illinois and the U.S.

While many people are starting to see MDMA in a more positive light, it is important to note that possession or sale of the substance is still against the law in the United States. Federal law places MDMA in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. In 2011, the American Civil Liberties Union successfully reasoned in federal court that the current sentencing standards for MDMA are grounded in flawed science, leading to disproportionate prison sentences.

State courts have differed in their adherence to federal sentencing guidelines. Illinois law considers possession of under 15 grams of MDMA a Class 4 Felony. Possession of greater amounts of MDMA is a Class 1 Felony and carries a penalty of up to 50 years in prison and fines of up to $200,000.

Have You Been Arrested Because of Drug Possession?

If you have been charged with a drug crime, you need a Will County criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights. To schedule your free initial consultation at the Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C., call 815-740-4025 today.