Using MDMA to improve social interactions in people with schizophrenia
Official title: MDMA as a Treatment for Social Deficits in Schizophrenia
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10932872 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether MDMA can help people with schizophrenia feel more connected and engaged socially, by giving different doses of the substance in a safe setting and seeing how it affects their social behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $393,750 |
| NIH project number | 5DP5OD036172-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932872 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience significant social deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have schizophrenia or those whose social deficits are not a primary concern may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of MDMA, a substance known for its ability to enhance feelings of empathy and social connection, as a treatment for social deficits in individuals with schizophrenia. The study will involve administering varying doses of MDMA to participants in a controlled setting to assess its effects on social motivation and engagement. By focusing on the unique properties of MDMA, the research aims to explore a novel approach to addressing a significant and often untreated symptom of schizophrenia. Participants will be closely monitored throughout the trial to evaluate changes in their social behavior and motivation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for improving social motivation in patients with schizophrenia, potentially enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise for MDMA in treating other psychiatric conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bershad, Anya K — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Bershad, Anya K
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.