MDMA (Ecstasy) Abuse
MDMA or (3,4-methyl-enedioxymethamphetamine) is an illegal drug that has both stimulant and psychedelic properties. The common name for this drug is Ecstasy. It affects the brain by altering the activity of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers which enable nerve cells in the brain to communicate with one another). Using MDMA in moderate to high doses can cause damage to the nerve cells that contain serotonin. Also, it causes the release of another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, which can contribute to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Ecstasy can also cause a dangerous increase in body temperature that could lead to kidney failure and possibly even death.
Users of Ecstasy respond that they have more energy, enhanced enjoyment of certain experiences, less anxiety, and a feeling of well being; however, they also report distortions in time and perception. Some users have reported immediate negative effects from the drug such as anxiety, agitation and recklessness. In regular users changes affecting memory can last up to a week or longer.
Most people incorrectly assume that using ecstasy is ok because it is a "safe drug," however it is far from safe. It became popular during the "rave" and all-night party scene but has now spread to being used in a number of settings. According to the 2004 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 11 million people have tried Ecstasy at least once.
Ecstasy is taken orally in a tablet or capsule form and the effects last about 3 to 6 hours. Most people report taking two tablets (60-120 mg) and use a second dose after the effects of the first dose begin to fade increasing the danger associated with using Ecstasy. Often a number of drugs are included in the MDMA tablet that the user is not aware of. Tablets have been found to contain methamphetamine, caffeine, over-the-counter cough suppressant dextromethorphan, diet drug ephedrine, and cocaine. It is also not uncommon for users of this substance to be using alcohol and marijuana, as well, which makes for a dangerous combination of substances.
The post use of MDMA often has undesirable side effects that can last for at least a week. Users report that they have had anxiety, restlessness, irritability and sadness that can mimic clinical depression. Others have had elevated anxiety, impulsiveness, aggression, sleep disturbances, lack of appetite and reduced interest in sex.
Reported Undesirable Effects of MDMA (up to 1 week or longer after use)
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Sadness
- Impulsiveness
- Aggression
- Sleep disturbances
- Lack of appetite
- Thirst
- Reduced interest in and pleasure from sex
- Significant reduction in mental abilities
Adverse Side Effects
- Nausea
- Chills
- Sweating
- Dehydration
- Heart failure
- Involuntary jaw clenching and teeth grinding
- Muscle cramping
- Blurred vision
- Marked rise in body temperature
- High blood pressure
- Kidney failure
Symptoms of MDMA Overdose
- High blood pressure
- Faintness
- Panic attacks
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
