The U.S. Department of Defense has approved funding for clinical studies that will test MDMA-assisted therapy as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder in active-duty military personnel.

Two Defense Department-funded studies will involve 186 service members with PTSD who will undergo multiple sessions of MDMA-assisted therapy, likely beginning next year. The psychedelic drug, commonly known as ecstasy or molly, will be administered in controlled therapeutic settings.

The studies represent a significant shift in military approach to treating combat-related trauma, as the Defense Department explores psychedelic drugs for active-duty soldiers. The research aims to determine whether MDMA-assisted therapy sessions can help service personnel process trauma more effectively.

PTSD affects significant numbers of military personnel, with many veterans and active-duty service members seeking various treatment approaches. Traditional treatments have included counseling, medication, and alternative therapies, though success rates vary among individuals.

The Defense Department's decision to fund psychedelic research reflects growing scientific interest in MDMA's therapeutic potential. Previous studies have shown promise for MDMA-assisted therapy in treating PTSD, leading to increased research into its clinical applications.