A synthetic psychoactive drug that affects serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine systems in the brain, producing feelings of emotional closeness, empathy, and euphoria. While sometimes used in therapeutic research, recreational use carries risks of neurotoxicity, hyperthermia, and psychological dependence.
Example: Research studies investigating MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD, where controlled doses are used in clinical settings to enhance therapeutic rapport and emotional processing.