What It Is

Pharmaceutically ecstasy is known as 3,4 methylene- dioxymethamphetamine, usually referred to as MDMA. It is one of a huge family of related drugs from the MDA family which fall between hallucinogens (like LSD) and the amphetamine family. It was first synthesized in 1912 by a German pharmaceutical company. Ecstasy is very popular at raves.

Street Names

Ecstasy ‘E’, MDMA, MDA, MDEA, Pills, Love Doves, Adam, X-TC

It usually comes in small tablets that may have a picture printed on them such as a dove, a hammer and sickle, or a diamond and the drug is often referred to by its appearance (such as ‘Doves’).

How It Is Taken

Usually taken orally.

What It Does

Most users feel an initial rush with feelings of nervousness, tingling and an uncertain feeling in the stomach (butterflies) followed by a warm euphoric glow lasting 4 – 6 hours, when the user feels calm and happy. It is a common belief that ecstasy will always provide a positive experience although there is a chance (although less than with a drug such as LSD) that a bad-trip will occur. Dry mouth, dilated pupils and various tingling sensations are common.

Taking ecstasy will exaggerate moods and feelings, therefore taking an ‘E’ when your mind is distracted by worry, or relationship hassles can be risky.
Initial effects are often ‘butterflies in the stomach’, a

Most of these deaths attributed to Ecstasy have been at clubs or raves where dehydration and over heating has been a major factor.

Medical Uses

None