Ecstasy

Ecstasy is the street name for the psychoactive amphetamine drug MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine).  It is considered unusual for its tendency to induce a sense of intimacy with others and  diminished feelings of fear and anxiety. Users also describe an experience of inner peace, self-confidence, increased insightfulness, and an intensity of perception.  Before being classified as a controlled substance, MDMA was actually used as an adjunct to psychotherapy, particularly in the treatment of depression and anxiety. 

First synthesized in 1912, MDMA is one of the most widely used recreational drugs in the world and is taken in a variety of contexts far removed from it's roots in psychotherapeutic settings. It is most often associated with dance clubs, raves, and electronica subculture.  The effects of the drug typically kick in 30 to 60 minutes following consumption and last approximately 2 to 3 hours.

There have been ongoing debates about the risks of MDMA, specifically

the possibility of neurotoxic damage to the central nervous system. Regulatory authorities in several settings around the world have approved further studies of MDMA and its potential risks and benefits, although it has been criminalized in most countries under a United Nations agreement.

In addition to Ecstasy, MDMA is known by a number of other names as well.  Clarity, Essence, Euphoria, Magic, Transcendence, Beans, Love Drug, and Lover's Speed are a few. MDMA in its pure, powder, crystalline, or capsule form is commonly referred to as Mandy. The term often used to describe those under the influence of MDMA is "to roll" or be "rolling," in reference to the involuntary eye movements associated with the drugs use.

The biggest danger in the use of MDMA is the fact that the user cannot be certain of the drugs purity and the level of other toxic chemicals present. There have been a number of deaths attributed to the use of PMA, a highly neurotoxic hallucinogenic amphetamine, which is sold as Ecstasy. PMA is much more potent than MDMA; thus, a user believing he is consuming a "regular" dose of MDMA may in fact be consuming a potentially lethal dose of PMA.

As with any substance, the withdrawal symptoms are generally the opposite of the effects of the drug.  In the case of MDMA, withdrawal or rebound effects may include depression; anxiety; suicidal ideation; irritability; fatigue; dizziness; headache; insomnia; panic attacks; and cognitive or memory impairment, to name a few. These effects may last 3 to 7 days.

For more information regarding Ecstasy, visit http://www.ecstasy.org/.