Slang
E, X, XTC, beans, Adams, molly, candy, M.
Short
Ecstasy contains the active ingredient MDMA; ecstasy is essentially MDMA in pill form. The drug is also sold as powder or crystals (MDMA). In the Netherlands, ecstasy has been mostly used recreationally since the 1980s. It has been the most popular party drug for many years. Problems are more often caused by an excessive dose per pill than by contamination (e.g., with components such as PMMA, PMA or mCPP).
Delivery methods
Swallowing (pill/bomb), snorting, booty bumping, slamming (MDMA).
Physical effects
Increased blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature.
Desired effects
Dependent on dosage, delivery method and frequency.
- Mental: excitement, feelings of infatuation, strong feelings of intimacy, empathy, security, reduced hostility, inner peace, self-acceptance, mindfulness, mental clarity, intense music experience, energetic, alert, desire to touch others/talk openly.
- Physical:spontaneous physical sensations, physical euphoria, increased energy, muscle relaxation, strong physical sensitivity, increased endurance.
Risks
Dependent on dosage, delivery method and frequency.
- Physical: teeth grinding, jaw clenching, erectile dysfunction, nausea, vomiting, bladder infection, temporary paralysis, loss of consciousness, cognitive impairment, seizures (rare), cardiac arrest (rare).
- Mentaal: restlessness, confusion, insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks, psychosis, difficulty concentrating, irritability, depression, hallucinations, memory problem.
Long term effects
Dental damage, liver damage, chronic depression, chronic psychosis, impairment of short-term memory, visual memory and general intelligence.
Tips for use:
- Have your ecstasy/MDMA tested freely and anonymously at a testing service near you. Testing will reveal how strong your pill is.
- Make sure you are physically and mentally healthy.
- Get plenty of rest before and after using ecstasy/MDMA.
- Eat healthy and balanced meals before and after using. Be sure to include antioxidants such as vitamin C through fruits and vegetables.
- If you don’t feel hungry, have a shake, yoghurt drink or fruit juice. The nutrients help reduce the hangover.
- Avoid using ecstasy/MDMA if you have diabetes, a weak heart, high blood pressure, epilepsy or mental illness or are taking medication (MAOIs and asthma medications).
- Use no more than once every six to eight weeks.
- Drink no more than one glass of water or soft drink per hour; any more will increase the risk of water intoxication.
- Give your body a chance to cool down while using ecstasy/MDMA.
- Rest regularly, and do not wear warm clothing or headwear.
- Avoid combining ecstasy with alcohol.
- Do not participate in traffic.
- Do not use during pregnancy. Ecstasy/MDMA is harmful to your unborn child.