What is MDMA (Ecstasy)?

MDMA is an illegal drug often used in the club scene. It is both a stimulant and a psychedelic leaving users feeling energized and with distorted perceptions. It enhances enjoyment from touching objects and people. MDMA is an acronym for its chemical name 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine

It is usually swalled as a tablet or capsule but can also be absorbed rectally. Most people use between 120 and 240 milligrams of MDMA as a dose. Its effects last between 3 and 6 hours and people will often take a second dose when the effect starts to wear off.

MDMA works by altering the way neurotransmitters in the brain operate. MDMA can be toxic to brain cells that contain serotonin which may lead to to long-term damage.

The tablets used in clubs are known as ecstasy but these tablets are rarely pure MDMA and are often a combination of other drugs such as methamphetamine, caffeine, cocaine, and ephedrine. MDMA is often used in conjunction with alcohol and marijuana.

Is MDMA addictive?

MDMA can be addictive for some people. American surveys found that 43% of young MDMA users met the diagnostic criteria for dependence. These users experienced tolerance and withdrawal and continued to use the substance despite the negative consequences it was creating.

The majority of people who use MDMA experience some form of withdrawal symptom such as fatigue, blue moods, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating

Treatment for MDMA abuse

As yet there is no specific medical intervention for MDMA abuse. A drug rehab will most likely employ a cognitive behavioural approach to help the patient change his/her behaviour and way of thinking. Providing the abuser with life skills to help cope with life's stressors is an important of a drug rehabilitation program

Recovery support groups, such as the 12 step fellowship Narcotics Anonymous, can assist in helping the addict find long-term drug-free recovery.

Additional Resources

• In the Mix is a review study examining the patterns of how club drugs are being used.
• Time Magazine: The Lure of Ecstasy is an article published in the popular magazine about the increasing prevalance of Ecstasy abuse.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse: Club Drugs is a NIDA report that summarises current knowledge about club drugs.
• Ecstasy News Articles is a news portal devoted to Ecstasy.