MDMA, it is commonly called as ecstasy, is a synthetic, psychoactive drug containing stimulant and hallucinogenic properties to give high to the users. MDMA possesses chemical variations of the stimulant amphetamine or meth and a hallucinogen drug, most often mescaline.Referred to as Ecstasy or XTC, MDMA was synthesized in 1912 by a company in Germany possibly with the purpose of an appetite suppressant. Chemically, it is an analogue of MDA, a drug that was very popular in the 60s. In the late 1970s, Illicit use of MDMA did not become popular until late 80s and early 90s. MDMA is used often with other drugs. However, it is rarely used with alcohol, as alcohol is known to diminish the ecstasy’s effects. It is often distributed at late-night parties called “raves,” nightclubs, and rock concerts. As the rave and club scene expands to metropolitan and suburban areas across the country, MDMA use and distribution are increasing as well.
Ecstasy is most of the time available in form of tablet and is usually ingested orally. It is available also as a powder and is rarely snorted and occasionally smoked, but rarely injected. The Ecstasy’s effects last between four to six hours. Ecstasy’s users say that it produces positive feelings indide, empathy for others, reduction of anxiety, and extreme relaxation. MDMA is also said to reduce the need to eat, drink, or sleep, enabling users to endure two- to three-day parties. Consequently, Ecstasy use can results in severe dehydration or exhaustion.
Street names
Ecstasy is also known as “E”, “XTC”, “eccy”, “the love drug”
How is Ectasy used?
Ecstasy generally comes in tablet form, in different colours, sizes, shapes and designs.
Swallowing is the most usual way that ecstasy is consumed. Ecstasy tablets are also crushed and snorted. They are occasionally inserted into the anus (called “shafting” or “shelving”). Injecting ecstasy has risen in Australia over late years.
Effects of ecstasy
The effects of any narcotic (including ecstasy) can differ from person to person. Because ecstasy is usually taken before to, or during, dance or “rave” parties, the stimulant effects are likely to increase. Hence, the individual taking the drug may be more prone to prolonged and vigorous dancing, further exacerbating some of the hazards listed below.
Researches of ecstasy users demonstrate that there are risks in the safety and reduction in the brain activity, due to the loss of serotonin levels going up and down so drastically. Long periods of ecstasy consumption demonstrate that the increases of MDMA may be fun at first but very toxic to the brain, and can cause damage to the body and brain cells.
Here are some results caused by long periods of consumption: dehydration, hypertension, hyperthermia, heart failure and kidney failure. These are certain of the fatal things that can happen from the prolonged use of ecstasy. We as parents need to search for indicators and get word out about these effects and symptoms. This might help keep youngsters from attempting other illegal substances and abusing alcohol.