What Is Ecstasy
As with all drugs there are various names to describe Ecstasy, for instance ‘E’, Doves, Fantasy or Dolphins. This type of drug usually comes in a tablet form of different shapes, sizes and colour, but usually their are white. The chemical name for this drug is MDMA (Methylendioxymethamphetamine), which is similar to an amphetamine. A large percentage of Ecstasy on sale today does not contain MDMA, some tablets have been found to contain Heroin. Ecstasy is usually taken by mouth and would start to give the user the effect in approximately 20 to 60 minuets (known as coming up), the effects of Ecstasy could last up to 7 hours, part of this being a coming down period as the drug starts to wear off.
Ecstasy is mainly imported from Holland although it is believed that it may be being manufactures in the UK. This drug has been around for years and it is not new to the market as some people believe. This drug was first developed in the 1914 and was being used in America in the 60’s. It has been used regularly since the 80’s and nowadays is usually taken at “Rave” nights.
The big problem with this drug, as with many others drugs, the user does NOT know what is in the tablet until it is to late.
A lot of Deaths have been caused due to Ecstasy in the UK.
Effects And Risks Of Ecstasy
Effects of Ecstasy:
- Users feel alert and in tune with other people
- Emotions, sounds and colours seem more intense
- The energy buzz from Ecstasy gives users the ability to dance for hours
- A sense of calmness
- Tingling of the skin
- Increase Temperature
- Increase Heart Rate
- Makes you sweat and your pupils to dilate
- In some people it can cause nausea
Risks of Ecstasy:
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Thickening of the blood causing heart attacks, strokes etc.
- Liver and kidney problems
- Tightening of the jaw
- In some instances DEATH
What To Do Whilst Taking Ecstasy
To minimize the risks whilst taking Ecstasy, firstly be very careful how you use this drug, the less you take, the less chance you have of having problems. Eat and sleep regularly, take a break from taking Ecstasy. The major problem with Ecstasy is heat stroke. When dancing you will increase body temperature take a break and drink lots of fluids (not alcohol), about one pint per hour in small amounts. Try drinking isotonic drinks or fruit juice and eat salty foods to replenish salt levels.
Is Ecstasy Addictive
Unfortunately there is little information on Ecstasy even though it has been around for so many years. The simple answer is no it is not addictive, such as the likes of Heroin and Cocaine. However the user could become dependent on the drug.