MDA

MDA is an acronym that can refer to several different organizations, technologies, and chemical compounds, depending on the context. As such, it is not unique to a single entity and is often clarified by accompanying text or domain.

Muscular Dystrophy Association. In the United States, MDA commonly denotes the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting people affected by muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular diseases. The group funds research, provides advocacy and patient services, and coordinates community programs.

Model-Driven Architecture. In software engineering, MDA stands for Model-Driven Architecture, a development approach promoted by the Object Management Group. It emphasizes creating and using abstract models at various levels of specificity to guide system design and, where possible, automate code generation. Core concepts include platform-independent models and platform-specific models, which separate specification from implementation.

3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine. MDA is also the chemical name for a psychoactive substance in the amphetamine class. It is used recreationally in some contexts and is illegal or tightly regulated in many jurisdictions. Effects are typically described as including perceptual changes and mood alterations, with potential risks and adverse effects associated with non-medical use.

Other uses. Beyond these, MDA is an acronym used by various professional and governmental organizations whose names begin with these initials. When encountering the term MDA, identifying the field or accompanying explanation is essential to determine the intended meaning.