A Case for Thoughtful MDMA Supplementation

MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine), commonly known as ecstasy or Molly, is a synthetic psychoactive compound first synthesized in 1912. Though illegal in most countries, some therapists used MDMA-assisted psychotherapy before the drug was banned, reporting that it helped patients become more introspective and discuss deep trauma.

In recent years, MDMA has re-entered psychiatry through FDA-approved clinical trials for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Early results are extremely promising, with over 60% of the PTSD patients in MDMA trials no longer qualifying for a PTSD diagnosis after just 3 sessions with the drug combined with therapy.

Beyond formally treating PTSD, many report recreational MDMA experiences leading to lasting psychological insights and increased empathy. The subjective effects include euphoria, emotional openness, empathy, and connection to others. With thoughtful preparation and intention, MDMA has demonstrated capacity for personal growth and catalyzing beneficial personality change.

However, MDMA is not risk-free. It tends to increase heart rate and blood pressure due to serotonin release and interferes with temperature regulation. Overheating is a serious risk if ambient temperatures are too high and hydration is insufficient. Other common side effects include anxiety, insomnia, lack of appetite, and jaw clenching. And at high doses, animal studies show the potential for neurotoxicity.

This is where taking supplements may mitigate risks and improve the MDMA experience. Though no clinical studies have been conducted, rodent trials show many supplements like alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) effectively prevent neurotoxicity and serotonin reductions from large doses of MDMA. Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) also demonstrates neuroprotective effects at the mitochondrial level. 

There are mechanistic reasons to believe other supplements such as Vitamin C, Green Tea Extract, CoEnzyme Q10, and Vitamin E can also be helpful.  While clinical evidence is admittedly limited, we think that these over-the counter supplements have enough going for them to include in a supplementation regimen for MDMA usage, especially given the very low incidence of side-effects, especially at recommended dosages.

A supplement protocol starting before MDMA and continuing afterward aims to prevent neurotoxicity through anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. For example, 1200mg of ALA, 100mg of ALCAR, 200mg of CoQ10, 500mg of Vitamin C, 536mg of Vitamin E, and 200mg of Green Tea extract are included in Roll Kits in dosages that allow users to spread the supplements out before and during their roll.

Rodent studies used extremely large “neurotoxic” doses of MDMA, suggesting even moderate human doses may gain protection from this stack.

Some people even use ginger to reduce the possibility of nausea and potentially enhance the prosocial effects. While requiring more research, a supplement regimen tailored to an individual’s needs and biochemistry may maximize the benefits of MDMA while minimizing risks.

Roll Kit does not included ginger since reports are anecdotal and we aim to keep total volume of supplements down to the ones with the most evidence.  People should feel free to add ginger to their supplement regimen!

Critics argue MDMA is dangerous regardless of supplements, carrying inherent risks that cannot be fully eliminated. This is a fair critique—any psychoactive substance use holds risks. However, alcohol causes 88,000 deaths annually just in the United States. Tobacco kills nearly half a million Americans each year. MDMA’s much lower risk profile does not justify prohibition when education and harm reduction are more effective.  

With care, intention, and supplements, MDMA shows promise for catalyzing profoundly beneficial psychological experiences for some people. Others gain no benefit from MDMA, highlighting the importance of individual biochemistry and setting. More research is vital, and full legalization would accelerate our understanding. In the meantime, a thoughtful supplementation protocol offers one avenue for maximizing this intriguing drug’s upside while minimizing harm.