MDMA-Assisted Therapy: What’s Next After the FDA Panel Decision?

Here at My Denver Therapy, we’ve been closely following the developments surrounding MDMA-assisted therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As you may know, an FDA advisory panel recently voted against recommending approval for Lykos Therapeutics’ application.

While this news may be disappointing for many, including therapists who anticipated providing this type of therapy for their clients, it’s important to understand what it means for the future of this potential treatment.

hand reaching out of screen, symbolizing help

Recap: What Happened with the FDA Panel?

The FDA panel raised concerns about the completeness of the data presented by Lykos Therapeutics. Specifically, they questioned the design of the clinical trials and the long-term safety profile of MDMA-assisted therapy.

It’s important to note that the FDA isn’t obligated to follow the panel’s recommendation, but it typically does hold significant weight.

What Does This Mean for MDMA-Assisted Therapy?

The road to FDA approval for MDMA-assisted therapy may have taken a time-consuming detour, but it’s not necessarily a dead end.  Here are some possible next steps:

  • Lykos Therapeutics could address the panel’s concerns and resubmit their application: This might involve conducting additional clinical trials or providing more robust data analysis.
  • Other companies could pursue FDA approval with their own MDMA-assisted therapy programs: The positive results from some studies suggest continued interest in exploring this treatment option.
  • The FDA might request additional data or clarifications from Lykos Therapeutics: This could lead to a revised application or further discussions before a final decision.

What to Expect in the Coming Months

The FDA has a target action date of August 11, 2024, for their decision on Lykos Therapeutics’ application. We’ll likely see more information emerge in the coming weeks as to how the agency plans to proceed, but it appears unlikely that MDMA-assisted therapy will be approved by the FDA in the near-term.

woman in therapy lying down

We’re Committed to Evidence-Based Treatment for PTSD

While MDMA-assisted therapy holds promise, it’s crucial to prioritize treatments with established safety and efficacy. At My Denver Therapy, our team offers a variety of evidence-based therapies for PTSD, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.

We understand the significant impact that PTSD can have on a person’s life. If you’re struggling with PTSD, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified therapist, like our therapists in Greenwood Village, Denver, and Lone Tree.

Stay Informed About MDMA-Assisted therapy

We’ll continue to monitor developments surrounding MDMA-assisted therapy and provide updates on our website. Stay tuned for future articles as we learn more about the future of this potential treatment option.

If you’re looking for a therapist in the Denver area, we’d love to help. My Denver Therapy is one of the largest private practices in Colorado with therapists in each of our offices who specialize in treating trauma. Contact us today, and one of our therapists will reach out to you directly.

Picture of Author: My Denver Therapy

Author: My Denver Therapy

One of the largest therapy practices in Colorado with licensed therapists in Denver, Lone Tree, and Greenwood Village.

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