What is Ecstasy?

   
 
 
 
 

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MDMA = Methlenedioxymethamphetamine

  • The most common drug used at parties
  • MDMA called “Ecstasy” is a psychedelic
  • Also referred to as a psycho-stimulant
  • The younger generation have turned to Ecstasy as the drug of choice for recreational use
  • Non intrusive
  • Does not need to be injected, snorted or smoked
  • Can just be put it in your mouth and swallowed like aspirin
  • Another reason why it appeals to our youth and young adults!

Street Names

  • Ecstasy, XTC, X, Adam, Clarity, Lover’s speed

Who Uses Ecstasy?

  • Club Drug = allows users to dance for extended periods of time
    • leads to
      • dehydration
      • hypertension
      • heart or kidney failure
  • Younger generation has turned to Ecstasy for recreational use

Routes of Administration

  • Most often taken orally in the form of tablets and capsules
  • The pill is generally pastel in color and may have many different logos stamped into it

Signs & Symptoms of Use

  • Empathy towards others
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Pupil dilation
  • Dryness of the mouth
  • Teeth grinding

Short - Term Effects

  • Euphoria
  • Relaxed feeling
  • Altered perception of time
  • Increased openness
  • Increased awareness of emotions
  • Increased sexual arousal
  • Reduced defensiveness
  • Greater self- esteem
  • Loss of self consciousness
  • Suppresses the need to eat, drink or sleep
  • Ecstasy is a hallucinogen and produces a stimulant effect like amphetamine
  • Muscle tension
  • Increased heart rate
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Increased temperature

Long - Term Effects

  • Memory impairment
  • Heart attacks
  • Strokes
  • Seizures
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Stomach cramps
  • Acne – skin rash
  • Headaches
  • Paranoia
  • Difficulty in concentration
  • Respiratory failure
  • Liver failure

References:

  • Florida Alcohol & Drug Abuse Association Resource Center, “Just the Facts, What are Club Drugs?” (October 1998)
  • Uppers, Downers, All Arounders: Physical and Mental Effects of Psychoactive Drugs (Paperback), 6th edition, by Darryl Inaba& William E. Cohen

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