Download this fact sheet: Ecstasy: reducing the risks (for young people) [PDF: 425 KB]
Number 4.8 December 2005
for young people
Introduction
Ecstasy may appear to be the “perfect” social drug because, in the short-term, it makes you feel happy and warm toward others, it is relatively affordable and it is linked to music and fun. There appear to be few observable short-term side effects and a relatively low risk of overdose compared to other drugs. However, research has found that ecstasy use is harmful, both physically and psychologically. Although deaths due to ecstasy are fairly rare there are other significant side effects related to its use.
This fact sheet describes the effects of ecstasy and provides some advice about reducing the harms associated with ecstasy use.
Psychological effects of ecstasy use
The effects of ecstasy can be felt approximately 20 to 40 minutes after you use it and the “high” usually lasts from four to six hours. Ecstasy causes a range of psychological and physical changes in the body and mind.
The positive psychological effects caused by ecstasy include feelings of euphoria, loving and warmth toward others, increased self-confidence, lack of inhibition, feelings of relaxation, self-exploration, emotional openness and increased energy.
The negative psychological effects include: anxiety, depression, depersonalisation—feeling as though you are “outside of your body”, confusion, hallucinations, flashbacks, aggression, lack of motivation, panic attacks and paranoia.
Many of these psychological effects seem to be consistent with evidence that ecstasy has a toxic effect on certain chemical pathways in the brain. Although, there is not much information about the long-term effects of ecstasy on humans, recent animal studies show that ecstasy destroys nerve endings in the brain. This means that ecstasy is a “neurotoxin” and may lead to problems, such as long-term depression and sleep disturbances.
Physical effects of ecstasy
Ecstasy causes a dangerous increase in body temperature that can lead to heart failure. Ecstasy can cause an increase in blood pressure (so anyone with high blood pressure or a heart condition should not take it), a faster heartbeat, skin tingles, sudden sweating and dilated pupils. Some people may also experience unsteadiness, nausea and possibly vomiting, jaw clenching, teeth grinding, muscle aches, impairment of motor control, blurred vision, insomnia and fatigue. Most of these side effects subside within 24 hours.
The toxic effects of ecstasy that can lead to death are:
- high body temperature leading to multiple organ failure
- blood clotting
- kidney failure.
In order to combat dehydration, it was initially recommended to ravers that they be aware of water consumption. As a result, ravers started to drink water excessively, which lead to abnormally low body temperature and swelling of the brain. This is known as hyponatremia.
Who should not use ecstasy?
There are some people who should avoid ecstasy because the risks of something going wrong are much greater than for other people. The dangers associated with the use of ecstasy increase:
- if you suffer from diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, depression or psychosis
- if you have any heart disorders or cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure or thrombosis
- if you are taking antidepressants
- if you have a history of kidney disease
- if you are on any weight loss medication.
How to take care of yourself
Ecstasy is illegal and a conviction for possession can carry prison sentences. It is safest not to use ecstasy at all but if you do use, learn how to reduce your risk:
- There is less risk with less use, more risk with more use.
- Overheating is one of the main dangers of taking ecstasy; perspiring is essential to avoid overheating and water is essential in order to perspire.
- Drinking too much water can be harmful, even fatal. The correct levels of water consumption are: 250ml of water per hour if you are inactive and 500ml of water per hour if you are active.
- Ecstasy puts a lot of physical strain on your heart, liver and kidneys. Make sure you take regular breaks from dancing.
- Using ecstasy with alcohol or other drugs increases the risk of adverse reactions.
- Much of what is sold as “ecstasy” actually contains other drugs, some of which can be more dangerous than ecstasy. Be sure to find out as much as possible about the drug you are taking.
- Do not drive a vehicle when you have used ecstasy.
- Make sure you have a friend around you who is not using drugs who can help if something goes wrong.
- Be realistic about the “come down” effects (for example, insomnia, depression, anxiety) and work out the best way to deal with it.
Warning signs
If you start to feel any of the following symptoms you may be in trouble and will need to get help fast:
- feeling hot, unwell and confused
- not able to talk properly
- headache
- cramping
- vomiting
- trouble going to the toilet
- not sweating even when dancing
- trouble breathing
- fainting, collapsing, convulsing.
If these symptoms start:
- stop dancing
- tell a friend you don’t feel well
- sip some cold water
- splash cold water on your face
- rest in the chill out room or a quiet cool area.
When something goes wrong
Before using ecstasy, make sure you and your friends know what to do in a crisis. If someone overdoses or has an adverse reaction, it is very important that they receive professional help as soon as possible.
- Call an ambulance. Dial 000 (ambulance officers are not obliged to involve the police).
- Stay with the person until the ambulance arrives.
- If the person is unconscious, turn them on their side and gently tilt their head back so their tongue does not block the airway.
- If breathing has stopped, give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If there is no pulse, apply CPR.
- Provide the ambulance officers with as much information as you can—what drugs were taken, how long ago, and any pre-existing medical conditions or medications used.
Getting help
Long-term use of ecstasy is associated with some serious health problems. If you feel that your ecstasy use is problematic help is available:
- Youth Substance Abuse Service, tel. 1800 014 446
24-hour counselling, support and referral for 12–21-year-olds
- Family Drug Help, tel. 1300 660 068
A support service for family members that is staffed by trained volunteers and professional counsellors.
For more information on drugs and drug prevention contact the DrugInfo Clearinghouse on tel. 1300 85 85 84, email druginfo@adf.org.au, or visit our website www.druginfo.adf.org.au.