|
|
| Click here to return |
<<previous | next>> |
| |
| Introduction
Ecstasy was developed by a German chemical firm in 1914 as an appetite suppressant. In the 1970s it was used by psychiatric therapists to help people explore their feelings. In the 1980s partygoers and clubbers discovered that Ecstasy increased their enjoyment of dance music and gave them an increased sense of empathy with other partygoers. MDMA (MethyleneDioxyMethAmphetamine) is the active ingredient in Ecstasy.
Ecstasy most resembles an amphetamine in its effects and should be viewed as a stimulant that lies on a continuum between purely psychedelic drugs like LSD and purely speed drugs like Methamphetamine.
Form
Ecstasy comes in small white or yellow tablets and is often embossed with a logo or motif. The main active ingredient of Ecstasy is MDMA, although tablets often contain other substances such as caffeine, methamphetamine, ketamine, MDA, PCP and a number of other adulterants.
Desired Effects
A sense of well being and closeness to others.
Increased confidence.
Euphoria
Hallucinations
Administration
Usually swallowed but sometimes injected intravenously.
Addicive Potential
Studies have shown that few people take Ecstasy for long periods. There is little evidence to show that Ecstasy is addictive.
Dangers
 Overdosing on Ecstasy can result in high blood pressure and a very high body temperature.
Death, there have been reports of death relating to Ecstasy use, most likely caused by sudden changes in body temperature. Ecstasy reduces urine output and if too much fluid is drunk a syndrome called "water intoxication" can occur. This can be fatal if not treated quickly.
There is some evidence that excessive and prolonged use may cause damage to certain types of brain cells, although this has not been conclusively proved.
Undesired Side Effects
Increased libido but a decrease in sexual performance.
Dry mouth and throat.
Nausea
Convulsions
Loss of appetite.
Muscle aches.
Difficulty concentrating.
Jaw clenching.
Insomnia
Anxiety
Tremors
Harm Reduction
Not taking Ecstasy is the safest option.
If you do choose to use Ecstasy:
It is important that you drink water to prevent dehydration. However it is recommended that you drink no more than 600mls of water per hour so as to avoid "water intoxication".
If you are going to inject Ecstasy:
Always use a new needle and syringe, one for each person using. Don't share Needles and Syringes
The sharing of drug preparation equipment such as spoons, tourniquets, filters etc has been shown to transmit Hepatitis C. Prepare your drugs for injection separately. For more information about Safer Injection techniques CLICK HERE.
Always filter your drugs, most drugs in New Zealand are relatively impure and the level of contamination is high. You can reduce these risks by using a filter. CLICK HERE for more information about filtering drugs. |
|
| |
|
