Psychiatrists and researchers are using a notorious party drug to treat veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and are asking the Department of Veterans Affairs to expand the program.

Scientists say methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) produces an experience described as “inhibiting the subjective fear response to an emotional threat”, late night rave-goers know it as ecstasy, and say it produces an intimate, euphoric groove and makes you grind your teeth.

Jacqui Smith is on a collision course with government drug experts over their belief that Ecstasy should be downgraded.

The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs will publish a report later this month which is expected to call for the drug to be reclassified from Class A to Class B.