After a single dose of MDMA, users may experience feelings of empathy, love, forgiveness, euphoric warmness and a strongly increased urge to socialize and connect emotionally with others (Erowid, 2001). This effect happens because MDMA releases abnormally large amounts of serotonin and oxytocin (Dumont, 2009).

            Before proper studies on the effectiveness of MDMA could be conducted, the DEA deemed it a Schedule I controlled substance with no medicinal value because it was being used recreationally. Some of the biggest issues with MDMA are that it causes neurotoxicity, dehydration and hyperthermia which can be fatal combined with heavy physical activity in hot environments. However, these problems can actually be mitigated through the use of anti-oxidants, rehydration and cool room temperature respectively (Erowid, 2001). 

           Because street drugs can be impure or cut, the legalization of MDMA is also an appeal to public safety as this would bring about regulations and quality control making it safer for everyone. The good news is the DEA just granted licensing to conduct further MDMA research which is part of an $18,500,000 plan to make MDMA available in prescription by 2021 (MAPS, 2013).

References

Dumont, G. H., Sweep, F. J., van der Steen, R. R., Hermsen, R. R., Donders, A. T., Touw, D. J.,

& ... Verkes, R. J. (2009). Increased oxytocin concentrations and prosocial feelings in humans after ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) administration. Social Neuroscience, 4(4), 359-366. doi:10.1080/17470910802649470

Bouso, J., Doblin, R., Farré, M., Alcázar, M., & Gómez-Jarabo, G. (2008). MDMA-assisted
            psychotherapy using low doses in a small sample of women with chronic posttraumatic  

stress disorder. Journal Of Psychoactive Drugs, 40(3), 225-236.

Erowid, Earth. (2001). Do Antioxidants Protect Against MDMA Hangover, Tolerance, and

Neurotoxicity?. Erowid Extracts, 2, 6-11.

MAPS. (2013). Research MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy
            Retrieved on June 21, 2014 at http://www.maps.org/research/mdma/

Shrubb, R. (2013). The magical mystery cure. Therapy Today, 24(4), 10-13.