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NIDA Research Report on Ecstasy



MDMA Abuse - Ecstasy

From the Director

The so-called "club drug" MDMA continues to be used by millions of Americans across the country despite growing evidence of its potential harmful effects. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or "Ecstasy") has gained a deceptive reputation as a "safe" drug among its users. This illegal drug, which has both stimulant and psychedelic properties, is often taken for the feelings of well-being, stimulation, as well as the distortions in time and sensory perceptions that it produces. MDMA first became popular in the "rave" and all-night party scene, but its use has now spread to a wide range of settings and demographic subgroups. According to the 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 10 million people have tried MDMA at least once.

Myths abound about both the acute effects and long-term consequences of this drug, often called "Ecstasy" or "X". Indeed, one reason for the rapid rise in the drug's popularity is that many young people believe that MDMA is a new safe drug. But MDMA is not new to the scientific community, with many laboratories beginning their investigations of this drug in the 1980s, and the picture emerging from their efforts is of a drug that is far from benign. For example, MDMA can cause a dangerous increase in body temperature that can lead to cardiovascular failure. MDMA can also increase heart rate, blood pressure, and heart wall stress. Animal studies show that MDMA can damage specific neurons in the brain. In humans, the research is not conclusive at this time; however, a number of studies show that long-term heavy MDMA users suffer cognitive deficits, including problems with memory.

NIDA-supported research is developing a clearer picture of the potential dangers of MDMA, and this Research Report summarizes the latest findings. We hope that this compilation of scientific information will inform readers and help the public recognize the risks of MDMA use.

Nora D. Volkow, M.D.
Director
National Institute on Drug Abuse

 

All materials appearing in the Research Reports Series are in the public domain and may be reproduced without permission from NIDA. Citation of the source is appreciated.

To obtain printed copies of this report, please call or write the National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information, P.O. Box 2345, Rockville, MD 20852, 1-800-729-6686. NIDA Research Report - MDMA Abuse (Ecstasy): Printed April 2004. This page has been accessed 84329 times since 4/1/04.


Index

Letter from the Director

What is MDMA?

A brief history of MDMA

What is the scope of MDMA abuse in the U.S.?

Who is abusing MDMA?

What are the effects of MDMA?

What does MDMA do to the brain?

Is MDMA addictive?

What do we know about preventing MDMA abuse?

Are there effective treatments for MDMA absue?

Where can I get further scientific information about Ecstasy?

Glossary and References

 


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The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Questions? See our Contact Information. Last updated on Wednesday, March 31, 2004.