Get the Facts for the Festive Season
Posted on: Thursday 22nd December 2011
Christmas partygoers are being warned of the dangers of ecstasy this festive season.
The availability of ecstasy (MDMA) has increased in recent months and it’s vital people understand the risks, especially as you cannot tell the quality or strength of any drug, and therefore you just don’t know what you are getting until it’s too late.
Recently, tablets which look like ecstasy have been found to contain PMMA which has been responsible for a number of deaths across Europe, and been found in drug related deaths in Scotland.
PMMA can be present in many illicit drugs including powders and tablets in all sorts of colours and with all sorts of logos. For example, PMMA has been found in tablets in Scotland know as ‘Einsteins’ which have an ‘E+mc2’ logo, but also may be present in other ecstasy tablets.
The inclusion of PMMA is very dangerous as the potential of overdose is much more likely. Although users report similarities to effects of MDMA, many argue that as its initial effects can feel less potent than MDMA , users might take more and thus increase the risks.
Risks of ecstasy use can include overheating and dehydration. It has also been linked to mental health problems, liver and kidney damage, overdose and even death.
Like all drugs it’s impossible to tell what you are getting, or know the strength of the drug, making it more dangerous (especially if taking additional pills). Partygoers have also been reminded of the dangers of mixing any drugs with alcohol.
Signs of an ecstasy overdose could include:
- Hyperthermia (very high body temperature or overheating)
- Dehydration
- Rapid heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Breathing difficulties
- Seizures
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Muscle spasms
Remember there’s no way of telling what you are getting when you take drugs. Don’t risk it this festive period.
Phone the Know the Score helpline on 0800 587 5879 if you are worried about taking drugs or want to just chat over the risks involved.
If you are experiencing side effects after taking drugs and are worried contact your local Accident and Emergency Department, your Doctor or NHS 24 on 08454 242424.
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ecstasy,
drugs overdose,
mdma,
risks of taking drugs,
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