The Nature of 3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-Induced Serotonergic Dysfunction: Evidence for and Against the Neurodegeneration Hypothesis
2011
MDMA and Its Effects on Serotonin in the Brain
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Biezonski Dominik K, Meyer Jerrold S
Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Hypothesis
Does MDMA cause neurodegeneration in serotonergic neurons?
Conclusion
The study suggests that MDMA-induced serotonin marker depletion may not necessarily result from neurodegeneration.
Supporting Evidence
- High doses of MDMA reduce serotonin markers in the brain.
- Studies show that MDMA does not consistently cause glial cell reactions typical of brain damage.
- Some evidence suggests that serotonin levels can recover after MDMA exposure.
Takeaway
MDMA, a drug often called Ecstasy, might not actually kill brain cells that produce serotonin, even though it lowers the levels of serotonin markers.
Methodology
The review discusses various studies on the effects of MDMA on serotonin levels and serotonergic fibers in animal models.
Limitations
The findings are based on indirect measures and only one time point was assessed.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website