Why soldiers should take MDMA to treat trauma

The party drug ecstasy is usually associated with packed nightclubs and panicked politicians talking about the dangers involved in taking it.

However, a former head of the UK’s armed forces believes the drug’s active ingredient, known as MDMA, could be key to treating veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

General Sir Nick Carter is now calling on the government to relax restrictions in order to reduce the crippling cost of clinical trials. What evidence is there to suggest this treatment could be effective and what’s been the reaction from the few former soldiers who have benefitted so far?

Niall is joined by Sky’s science correspondent Thomas Moore.

Warning: Contains references to drug taking, depression and suicide.

Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show: why@sky.uk