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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Seventh Legislature, First Regular Session
appropriation; midomafetamine; research
Purpose
Appropriates $10 million in FY 2026 from the state General Fund (state GF) to the Department of Health Services (DHS) to award grants for trials or other research relating to midomafetamine as a treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Background
In 2024, an application was filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the approval of midomafetamine, also known as 3-4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults (FDA). MDMA is a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception and is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens. MDMA increases the activity of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain and its effects last about three to six hours. MDMA is currently in clinical trials as a possible treatment aid for PTSD, anxiety in terminally ill patients and for social anxiety in autistic adults (National Institute on Drug Abuse). The FDA designated MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD as a breakthrough therapy drug, which are intended to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition. A breakthrough therapy designation also means that preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the drug may demonstrate substantial improvement over existing therapies on one or more clinically significant endpoints (FDA).
PTSD is a mental health condition that is triggered by either experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Symptoms may start within one month of a traumatic event but may not appear until years later and can cause significant problems in social and work situations as well as in relationships. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety and uncontrollable thoughts about the event (Mayo Clinic).
S.B. 1460 appropriates $10 million in FY 2026 from the state GF to DHS.
Provisions
1. Appropriates $10 million in FY 2026 from the state GF to DHS to award grants for clinical trials or other research studying midomafetamine as a treatment for PTSD.
2. Limits grant recipients to only those that;
a) have completed at least one late-stage clinical trial relating to the use of midomafetamine for the treatment of PTSD; and
b) are currently participating in an FDA drug review process relating to the use of midomafetamine for the treatment of PTSD.
3. Exempts the appropriation from lapsing.
4. Becomes effective on the general effective date.
Prepared by Senate Research
February 17, 2025
MM/slp