What is Ecstasy (MDMA)?

What is Ecstasy (MDMA)?

Background Information

The scientific name of ecstasy is MDMA (or, to be more precise, 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine). It is a synthetic, psychoactive drug that has similarities to the stimulant amphetamine. MDMA was initially popular among young adults in the nightclub scene or at “raves” (huge, all night dance parties), but the drug now affects a broader range of users and ethnicities.

Ecstasy could contain just about anything. It is generally manufactured in clandestine labs by criminal drug dealers, not chemists. Ecstasy usually comes in tablets, which have been found to contain anywhere from 0-50% MDMA.

The most common non-MDMA ingredients in "Ecstasy" are aspirin, caffeine, and other over-the-counter medications.

One of the most dangerous additives commonly found in "Ecstasy" is DXM (dextromethorphan,) a cough suppressant.

MDMA acts by increasing the activity of three neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. The emotional and social effects of MDMA are likely caused by the release of large amounts of serotonin, which influences mood. Serotonin also triggers the release of the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin, which play important roles in love, trust and sexual arousal and this may account for the feelings of emotional empathy produced by the drug. After Ecstasy leaves the body dopamine levels plummet, causing depression and irritability.

Ecstasy tablets may be any color, and are generally embossed with a logo or design such as a butterfly, heart, lightning bolt, star, clover, or Zodiac sign. Ecstasy can be found in powder or in capsules.

Other street names are: E, XTC, Rolls, Adam, The Club Drug, Designer Drug, The Party Drug, Hug Drug, Disco Biscuits, White Doves, New Yorkers, Love Drug, Clarity, Lover’s Speed.

Effects of Ecstasy

The short-term effects of ecstasy include mental stimulation, emotional warmth, euphoria, empathy toward others and increased physical energy. Enhanced sensory perception is also a potential effect. This means that a person taking the drug may seem to be friendly, hyperactive or full of energy, and may seem wide awake even after hours of activity.

Side effects include confusion, depression, sleep problems, drug craving, and anxiety.

Signs of abuse

Ecstasy pills are easy to spot: they are small and coloured. They might look like little sweets.

Signs of ecstasy use include irregular sleeping patterns, unusual bursts of euphoria, a lack of awareness of pain and multiple sexual partners.

 Other signs of ecstasy abuse:

• Sweaty, a side effect of the high body temperature that is caused by the increased blood pressure and heart rate.
• Dizziness or feeling faint.
• Weight loss
• Sore jaws (from excessive teeth grinding)

When abuse of the ecstasy becomes chronic signs include paranoia, depression, confusion and aggression.

Symptoms of ecstasy/MDMA Overdose

High Blood Pressure

Faintness

Panic attacks

Loss of consciousness

Seizures

High body temperature

Health Risks

Users tend to think Ecstasy is harmless fun, but it does pose serious health risks.

The greatest dangers Ecstasy abusers face in the short term are super-elevated body temperature and dehydration. These are typical side effects, which can occur with any use, and they can be fatal.

On the other hand, drinking too much water suddenly can result in swelling of the brain and, in some circumstances, this can be fatal.

Other physical damage caused by ecstasy includes

Muscle tension

Involuntary jaw clenching and jaw problems

Cracked tooth enamel, worn teeth, tooth decay

Nausea

Headache

Blurred vision

Reduced appetite

Chills and sweating

Acne-like rash on the face and neck

Loss of control over voluntary body movements

Fainting

Tremors

High blood pressure

Dehydration

Kidney failure

Liver damage

Elevated heart rate

Heart attack

Stroke

Seizures

Brain cell destruction

Psychological Damage from Ecstasy Use

Confusion

Hallucinations

Sleep problems

Drug craving

Psychological addiction

Poor decision-making ability

Getting into fights or accidents

Anxiety and paranoia

Violent, irrational behavior

Depression

Decreased ability to process serotonin - critical to sleep and well-being

Withdrawal symptoms

Physical symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal include

Body ache (usually because of excessive dancing or other activities while high)

Constipation or diarrhea

Fatigue and lethargy

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

Disturbed sleep

Loss of appetite

Extreme thirst

Soreness of the jaw (involuntary grinding of teeth is common during the high)

Psychological symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal include

Anxiety

Confusion

Depression

Difficulty concentrating

Drug craving

Irritability

Lack of motivation

Problems with memory

Delusions

Paranoia

Suicidal feelings