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Abstract:
"Ecstasy" ((+/-) 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine: MDMA) is
an increasingly popular recreational drug. Animal research has
provided evidence that the high levels of serotonin released during
MDMA use result in the destruction of serotonergic (5-HT) brain
cells. 5-HT modulates several psychological functions, including
mood and memory. Clinical studies have demonstrated memory
impairment and dysphoric mood symptoms secondary to MDMA use,
possibly because of long-term alterations in serotonergic function.
In this study, we examined affect and cognitive functioning in
abstinent recreational users of MDMA compared with non-using
controls between the ages 18 and 35 with a particular emphasis on
working memory and other frontal lobe-mediated functions. The dose,
frequency, and duration of MDMA use were assessed through
self-report questionnaires, and structured clinical interviews were
used to rule out other pathology. Participants also completed a
comprehensive neuropsychological testing battery including measures
of IQ, motor skill, working and recognition memory, planning,
set-shifting, verbal and nonverbal skill, and attention.
Self-report measures of affect and personality traits were
obtained. Preliminary data analyses support the hypothesis that
recreational use of MDMA leads to dysregulations in mood and
cognition relative to what is observed in age-matched controls.
Findings will be discussed in relation to serotonin's modulation of
cognition, emotion, and their interactions within frontostriatal
networks.
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