The demand for MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine) has increased, especially among teenagers 12 to 18 years old. It is estimated that approximately 2.8 million teens have at least tried this drug. Coincident with this trend has been an increasing body of literature that questions the safety of MDMA consumption in terms of possibly permanent neurological damage, associated with behavioral and functional deficits. Whatever the likelihood of those risks, there have been well-documented problems with dehydration, hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and multiple organ failure. In addition, there have been tablets sold which either contain no MDMA, and may be comprised of more dangerous chemicals, or may contain a mixture of both. The current response has been the emergence of several harm reduction strategies, including the publishing of pamphlets warning Ecstasy users to hydrate and cool themselves. Another has been the utilization of chemical tests of tablet shavings to observe color changes purported to help distinguish MDMA-containing tablets from substitutes. The utility of these tests and the consequences of their shortcomings are examined.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02791072.2002.10399953 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Exploring the Intersection of Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome and Substance Use: A Comprehensive Narrative Review.
Cureus
October 2024
Internal Medicine, Long Island Community Hospital, Patchogue, USA.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a thrombotic microangiopathy characterized by hemolytic anemia, renal failure, and thrombocytopenia. While the typical form of HUS is often associated with Shiga toxin-producing (STEC) infections, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is caused by uncontrolled complement system activation, leading to endothelial damage, microthrombi formation, and other complications. Although aHUS is commonly linked to genetic mutations and infections, emerging evidence suggests that certain substances, particularly illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and ecstasy, can also trigger this condition, adding complexity to its diagnosis and management.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMisrepresentation of MDMA in the United States, 1999-2023.
Drug Alcohol Depend
November 2024
Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Background And Aims: The misrepresentation of illicit drugs in unregulated markets increases the risk of adverse health events. This study analyzed drug checking data to compare represented, expected, and actual content of alleged MDMA samples, estimate trends in the quality of the MDMA supply, document the presence of adulterants, compare patterns of adulteration, and validate drug checking against law enforcement data.
Method: The study analyzed 4719 alleged MDMA samples submitted to the DrugsData drug checking service between 1999-2023.
Psychedelics as a tool for a more connected and sustainable world? Considering the importance of rituals, boundaries, and commitment.
Int J Drug Policy
November 2024
School of Psychology, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, United Kingdom.
Despite the surge of interest in psychedelic research in the past decade, largely due to the promise of psychedelics for improving mental health outcomes, there has been comparatively little discussion about the social and environmental consequences of psychedelic drug use. While there is growing evidence to suggest psychedelics could foster a greater connection to the natural world and improve social relationships, such positive repercussions are far from guaranteed. In this commentary, we focus on LSD, psilocybin and especially MDMA, and outline three insights we came to see as crucial to creating beneficial outcomes: 1) the importance of setting and rituals, 2) the establishment of boundaries, and 3) understanding the long-term commitment required.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFEcstasy-Induced Rhabdomyolysis Leading to Severe Acute Kidney Injury Requiring Temporary Hemodialysis: A High Risk for Recurrence With Repeated Exposure.
Cureus
July 2024
Internal Medicine, Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, USA.
Ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethyl-amphetamine, MDMA) is an illicit drug that has found widespread use. It is mostly used by adolescents and young adults, particularly during intense and prolonged dance parties for its mood-enhancing properties. Despite these pleasurable effects, users may have potentially serious side effects including death.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFChemical composition of Ecstasy tablets seized in Poland between 2005 and 2020.
Forensic Toxicol
July 2024
Professor Jan Sehn Institute of Forensic Research, Krakow, Poland.
Purpose: The most commonly associated substance found in Ecstasy tablets is MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). In our study, we showed how the composition of psychoactive ingredients in Ecstasy tablets seized on the drug market in Poland has changed in the years 2005-2020.
Methods: The study material consisted of nearly 20,000 single Ecstasy tablets seized by representatives of law enforcement (the police, prosecutors) from 2005 to 2020 and analysed by the Institute of Forensic Research, Krakow, Poland.
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!