The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is funding its first psychedelics research study since the 1960s, focusing on MDMA-assisted therapy for veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder.
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VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal announced the initiative, which will be led by the Providence VA Medical Center in Rhode Island, during a panel discussion with advocates such as Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Rep. Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), who both support reforms in psychedelics treatment.
Elnahal highlighted that the study uses low-dose MDMA in the placebo group, addressing the “functional unblinding” issue, where participants might deduce their assigned study group due to the effects of the drug. This step aims to yield more scientifically rigorous data on the safety and effectiveness of MDMA therapy. Elnahal explained that the VA must lead this area of research to help build trust with veterans facing severe mental health challenges.
VA’s previous MDMA therapy trials have reportedly shown “stunning and robust results,” according to Rachel Yehuda, the director of mental health at the VA’s James J. Peters Medical Center and a leader in psychedelic psychotherapy research. Yehuda praised VA’s proactive approach, noting its commitment to continuing research and eventually integrating psychedelics into clinical practice when appropriate.
The FDA, however, recently declined an application to approve MDMA therapy for PTSD, which disappointed advocates and researchers who see potential in psychedelic-assisted therapies for veterans. Following this decision, Yehuda stated the VA’s response is to “double down” on research, focusing on building a stronger foundation of clinical data despite regulatory setbacks.
Meanwhile, bipartisan efforts in Congress are also supporting this therapeutic frontier. Lawmakers held a rally at the Capitol advocating for MDMA’s approval and launched an art installation memorializing military veterans who died by suicide. The House of Representatives has passed amendments to allow VA doctors to recommend medical marijuana to veterans and to expand research into psychedelics.
Additionally, the Senate Appropriations Committee recently expressed concerns over research restrictions on both marijuana and psychedelics. In parallel, advocates for veterans released a guidebook on psychedelic therapy, aiming to provide veterans with clinically supported information on exploring alternative treatments safely. This guide aligns with growing demand from veterans seeking effective alternatives for mental health care.
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