(NBC) - Could the street drug Ecstasy be used to help those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder?
The Food and Drug Administration says it will allow researchers to find out.
Ecstasy, also called MDMA, is a known party drug that generally gives users feelings of euphoria, empathy and a sense of well-being.
It is also being studied as a way to help people who suffer from PTSD work through their traumatic memories.
Small studies have suggested it can help many who currently have few effective treatment options.
Now, the FDA says researchers can move forward with a large phase three clinical trial of the drug as long as it's used under the direction of a trained psycho therapist.
Courtesy: NBC News Channel