To The Editor,

Regarding Rachel Zimmerman's article on the FDA's recent decision to approve a clinical study of MDMA in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (11/6/01):

The reason Alan Leshner of the National Institue on Drug Abuse, knows "of no evidence in the scientific literature that demonstrates the efficacy of Ecstasy for any clinical indication," is because that is what happens when there is political influence on the scientific process. Millions of people around the world are taking the drug Ecstasy but precious little clinical research is being done to learn more about this drug. NIDA, with a clear political agenda, is the leading financial supporter of America's research on illicit drugs.

Suggesting that MDMA "compete head on" with Zoloft is misleading. MDMA has already been patented, and it is typically given once or twice in the patient's lifetime. This is not about money. There is an international group of scientists, physicians, psychotherapists and political activists who believe that psychoactive drugs deserve to be explored for their benefit as well as their harm. The ultimate goal is knowledge, and improved therapies.

Ecstasy is a complex, multifaceted issue. There is too much sensationalism and binary thinking in the media. Labeling it a demon drug, or a "love drug" is inflammatory and inaccurate. We need to have clear heads to make a thorough evaluation and a rational diagnosis of the pros and the cons of MDMA. All medicines have a dose which is more safe and one that is more toxic, and all medicines come with various levels of utility and risks. Clearly there is abundant misuse of this drug. Ecstasy is a public health concern, and the priority needs to be thorough clinical understanding. I applaud the FDA for having the courage and political independence to let this study get underway; I hope the Medical University of South Carolina will follow suit.

Julie Holland,MD

Dr. Holland is an attending psychiatrist at Bellevue Hospital and the editor of Ecstasy: The Complete Guide, A Comprehensive Look at the Risks and Benefits of MDMA.