Capitol Hill (Photo: Wally Gobetz)
In November, lawmakers and VA officials discussed the potential of psychedelic drugs in treating mental health conditions and preventing Veteran suicide. A House Veterans Affairs panel held a hearing, one of the first in Congress on psychedelics since 1966, focusing on treatments using MDMA, commonly known as molly or ecstasy, and psilocybin, better known as magic mushrooms.
In July, the House passed a resolution urging the VA to investigate the possibility of utilizing federal funds for MDMA research. However, concerns were raised about the drugs’ illegal status under federal law and potential dangers if used recreationally. Representatives emphasized the need for scientific exploration of the medicinal properties of psychedelics in a clinical setting with assisted therapy.
Two Veterans testified at the hearing, expressing the positive impact of MDMA-assisted therapy on their lives. While the treatment showed success, it is not without risks, as participants experienced “treatment-emergent adverse events,” including symptoms like heart palpitations and anxiety.
Some lawmakers raised concerns about potential addiction and the comparison between marijuana and MDMA therapy. However, advocates argued that the positive impact on mental health, as seen in the research, justifies exploring these treatments further.
The VA is actively exploring emerging treatments, with plans to fund its own studies on psychedelic research. Dr. Carolyn Clancy, the VA’s assistant under secretary, highlighted the importance of safety in research and treatments, especially considering the unique challenges faced by Veterans with mental and physical health issues.
The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, or MAPS, has been researching the safety and effectiveness of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD since 2004. A recent clinical trial showed significant improvement in PTSD symptoms, with 87% of patients experiencing positive outcomes four months after treatment. The FDA designated this treatment as a “breakthrough therapy” in 2017, allowing for additional research.
MAPS plans to seek FDA approval for its therapy as early as next year, but the process may take time, considering the controlled substance and the entire protocol, including therapy, requires approval.
Despite promising research, the VA faces challenges in conducting studies due to regulatory restrictions from the FDA and DEA. The VA is currently involved in several studies related to psychedelics, with a focus on MDMA and synthetic psilocybin, but none are funded by the VA.
The congressional hearing brought attention to the pressing need within the Veteran community for effective treatments for PTSD and the reduction of suicide rates. While evidence suggests the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs, the regulatory landscape and safety concerns highlight the need for further research and a careful approach to implementing these treatments within the VA system.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
