MDMA-assisted psychotherapy reduces PTSD in 80% of soldiers, Israeli study finds

An Israeli study at HaEmek Medical Center found that about 80% of soldiers with PTSD who underwent MDMA-assisted psychotherapy reported reduced symptoms, with most no longer meeting diagnostic criteria. The treatment included 13 sessions, three with medically supervised MDMA. Researchers emphasize MDMA is a therapeutic tool, not a cure, and warn against unsupervised use.

A study conducted at Clalit Health Services' HaEmek Medical Center in Israel found that approximately 80% of soldiers with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who underwent MDMA-assisted psychotherapy experienced reduced symptoms, with most no longer meeting the diagnostic criteria for the disorder at the end of treatment. The study, co-led by clinical psychologist Ronen Sidi and Dr. Alon Reshef, director of psychiatry at the center, is evaluating the safety and effectiveness of this treatment approach as the need for PTSD treatments in Israel grows. According to Israel's healthcare system data, PTSD diagnoses have increased by approximately 70% in the wake of October 7 and the subsequent war. The full treatment consisted of 13 sessions of intensive psychotherapy, with three monitored sessions during which MDMA is administered under medical supervision. Two experienced therapists stay with each patient during the session. While under the influence of MDMA, patients are believed to be able to engage with traumatic memories while experiencing emotional regulation, trust, and psychological safety. Both Sidi and Reshef emphasized that MDMA itself was a therapeutic tool used within the treatment, and not the treatment itself. The hospital stressed that MDMA is not a "miracle cure" and warned that unsupervised use may cause more harm. Candidates underwent comprehensive screening and had strong family support. All were soldiers who had already undergone conventional PTSD treatments.