Ecstasy (MDMA)

Ecstasy tablets are usually swallowed – although some people do crush them up and smoke or snort them. Crystal/powder form can be ‘dabbed’ onto the gums or snorted. They both taste bitter and unpleasant.

The effects usually come on within 20 minutes to one hour and tend to last 3 – 6 hours, followed by a gradual comedown. The main effects include increased energy and a sense of well-being. Sounds, colours and emotions can feel more intense.

Physical side effects can include dilated pupils, a tingling feeling, tightening of the jaw muscles, raised body temperature and the heart beating faster.

Short term:

Can include feeling anxious or getting panic attacks, and developing confused episodes, paranoia or even psychosis. Use can also lead to overheating and dehydration, the risk is greater if users are dancing in a hot environment, like a club, without taking breaks or drinking enough non-alcoholic fluids. This can be fatal. Drinking up to a pint of water or non-alcoholic liquid every hour and eating a salty snack from time to time are advised.

Anyone with a heart condition, blood pressure problems, epilepsy or asthma can have a very dangerous reaction to the drug.

Long term:

Evidence suggests long-term users can suffer memory problems and may develop depression and anxiety. Ecstasy use has been linked to mental health problems, and liver, kidney and brain damage.

Drug trends intelligence indicates that it is common for tablets with a similar name, shape, size and colour, to contain different controlled drugs (such as MDMA, PMA, PMMA) in varying levels.

As you don’t know what you are taking, there are no guarantees or quality control when taking drugs. There are no safe amounts or levels. You won’t know whether it is MDMA, PMA, PMMA, or some other substance, but you should know that they can contain harmful and potentially toxic substances.

The dangers and risks to health, or indeed life, associated with the consumption of all controlled drugs are significant in themselves, however this is increased further when you mix different types of drugs together, or when mixed with alcohol.

Ecstasy is a Class A drug. This means that it’s illegal to possess, give away or sell. Possessing it can lead to a prison sentence of up to 7 years or an unlimited fine or both. Supplying (which includes giving it to a friend) could lead to a life sentence or an unlimited fine or both.