Exploring the effects of MDMA on social motivation in schizophrenia

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the tolerability of MDMA in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, specifically targeting the negative symptom of asociality, which significantly impairs social functioning. Participants aged 18-60 will receive varying doses of MDMA (40mg, 80mg, or 120mg) to assess its effects on social motivation and engagement. The study aims to determine if MDMA can enhance social interactions and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from this debilitating symptom. The trial is designed for clinically stable patients who have not experienced recent hospitalizations or medication changes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 18-60
* able to understand spoken English sufficiently to comprehend testing procedures
* DSM-5 diagnosis of schizophrenia, based on clinical interview
* clinical stability (i.e., no inpatient hospitalizations for six months prior to enrollment, no changes in medication in for 6 months prior to enrollment)

Exclusion Criteria:

* no history of aggressive or suicidal behavior while psychotic
* no history of IQ less than 70 or developmental disability, based on medical history
* no clinically significant neurological disease (e.g., epilepsy), or cardiovascular condition (e.g. cardiac arrhythmia) based on medical history
* no history of serious head injury (i.e., loss of consciousness longer than 1 hour, neuropsychological sequelae, cognitive rehabilitation treatment after head injury) based on medical history
* no substance or alcohol use disorder in the past six months
* no sedatives or benzodiazepines within 24 hours of testing
* no positive urine toxicology screen or visible intoxication on the day of assessment
* no women who are pregnant or think that they might be pregnant, based on self-report and urine test
* not currently taking SSRIs or SNRIs
* no history of NMS or serotonin syndrome
* No prolongation of the QTc interval on EKG

Where it's running

• UCLA
  Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Gerard De Vera
• Email: gdevera@mednet.ucla.edu
• Phone: 310-794-5577

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.