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Ecstasy

Ecstasy, also called MDMA, is a partial derivative of amphetamine and has effects similar to others in the amphetamine group. It is sometimes classified as a hallucinogen. Ecstasy has spread, especially on American college campuses and among young people all around the country. Most individuals who use Ecstasy also use other drugs. Other names for Ecstasy include MBDB, MDE, MDA, MDEA and 2CB.

Methods of Use

Ecstasy is usually swallowed in tablet form, but it can be injected, snorted, or smoked.

Effects on the Central Nervous System

Because Ecstasy is a stimulant, it causes increased neural activity across the central nervous system and has diverse stimulating and arousing effects on other organ systems. Evidence suggests that Ecstasy produces euphoric feelings through action on the neurotransmitter called dopamine ; however, other effects, especially the more general physiological effects of the drug, can be attributed to action on the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine.

Intoxication

Ecstasy produces an altered reality and creates a lasting high. Chemically, Ecstasy lowers the levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are important neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the central nervous system). Some researchers have noted a similarity between long-term use of Ecstasy and the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Evidence suggests that even a single dose of Ecstasy is neurotoxic (poisonous) to the human brain. Its use is associated with anxiety and depression, mood swings, memory problems, and sleep disturbance. Long-term use may depress immune system functioning. Other common side effects of using Ecstasy include:

Increased heart rate
Fever
Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
Nausea or vomiting
Anxiety
Appetite loss
Sweating

Life Risks

Evidence suggests that Ecstasy is a neurotoxin, meaning that it has direct, damaging effects on nerve cells.
Partly because of the popularity of Ecstacy, it is often in short supply, placing pressure on unscrupulous dealers to substitute other drugs for it.
Users of Ecstacy are often at risk of dehydration, water intoxication, and heat stroke. Ecstasy use often elevates temperature and, in addition to stimulating the body, often leaves users out of touch with their own level of exertion. The result may be dehydration from over-activity without enough water, or at the other extreme, drinking enough water to cause water intoxication and, in some cases, brain damage and death.

Withdrawal

The person coming down from Ecstasy often experiences exhaustion, irritability, paranoia, and depression. Coming down from higher doses may cause convulsions, hallucinations, and irrational behavior.

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