MDMA for Liver Disease

This trial explores how people with liver issues process MDMA, a substance sometimes used in therapy, compared to those with healthy livers. The goal is to determine if individuals with abnormal liver function absorb more MDMA and if their dosage needs adjustment. Participants will receive a single dose of MDMA and remain on-site for two days for various health checks. The trial seeks individuals with either moderate liver problems or normal liver function, and candidates must be willing to stay at the study site for the required duration. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants a chance to contribute to groundbreaking research.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Studies have shown some risks of MDMA for the liver, linking it to liver damage and even liver failure. This poses a concern, especially for individuals with existing liver problems. Cases of MDMA-induced liver injury, though rare, highlight the importance of monitoring liver health when using MDMA.

Unlike the standard treatments for liver disease, which typically involve lifestyle changes, medications like ursodeoxycholic acid, or even liver transplants, MDMA (specifically midomafetamine HCl) is being explored for its unique psychoactive properties. Researchers are excited about MDMA because it acts on serotonin receptors, potentially offering a novel mechanism to alleviate symptoms associated with liver disease. This approach is particularly intriguing as it may provide benefits beyond traditional treatments, possibly improving quality of life for patients with moderate hepatic impairment.

Research on MDMA (also known as ecstasy) has shown that it can sometimes harm the liver and, in rare cases, cause liver failure. This suggests the drug might affect liver function, especially in individuals with existing liver problems. In this trial, one group of participants with moderate hepatic impairment will receive a single dose of 80 mg midomafetamine HCl. Another group, consisting of participants with normal hepatic function, will receive the same dose. The study aims to understand how MDMA is processed in people with liver issues compared to those with healthy livers. The goal is to determine if individuals with liver problems absorb more of the drug and if their dosage needs adjustment.¹²³⁶⁷