Things to know about ecstasy

Dose

Taking more E in a night may often be a waste of time. Once the brain has released its ‘happy’ chemicals there's none left until the brain replaces them days later. Any extra buzz from more pills is likely to be due to the pills' amphetamine-type ingredients.

The down side

Ecstasy can:

• mask the normal sensations of tiredness or thirst
• dilate pupils
• dry the mouth
• cause teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

A couple of days after taking it users often feel depressed or irritable. Many users find that repeated use leads to the ‘magic’ wearing off.

Problem use

Tolerance of E builds, with more needed to get the same effect. Although not physically addictive (there are no physical withdrawal symptoms), users can come to rely on the drug.

At risk

Research is going on into the damage E might do to the brain. Some research shows no harm, while some shows users' brains are permanently changed, leading to depression or memory loss.

E can make depression worse in those already suffering from it and may cause it (and memory loss) in previously healthy people.

Over 250 people died from using the drug in the UK over the five year period 1999-2004*.

Heat stroke is the most common cause of death as the drug raises body temperature and this is made worse by the effects of dancing, high temperatures in clubs and dehydration. Breaks from dancing and drinking a pint of water over an hour are advised if dancing, but drinking too much water can itself cause death.

Ecstasy increases blood pressure and heart rate, so should be avoided by those with high blood pressure, glaucoma (an eye condition), heart, liver or kidney conditions or a history of stroke.

A small percentage of people appear hypersensitive to the drug (including those with congenital heart defects), making the first experience of the drug hazardous.

Mixing

With HIV medication

Drug interactions - some life-threatening - can occur between ecstasy and some anti-HIV medication (eg protease inhibitors). Get medical advice if taking meds for HIV.

With anti-depressants

E taken while on anti-depressants can cause the dangerous reaction of Serotonin Syndrome. Find out more about Serotonin Syndrome on the page about Using drugs.

With stimulants

E taken with stimulants such as speed or cocaine risks putting the heart under a dangerous level of stress.

With alcohol

E with alcohol is a bad mix: both put stress on the liver and kidneys, dehydrate the body and, the biggest risk, push up body temperature. Most E-related deaths also involve booze.

With Viagra

There have been some reports of E and Viagra-type drugs causing erections that won't go down. If medical help isn't found within four hours this can cause lasting damage to the dick.

The law

Ecstasy is a Class A drug.

Penalties

The penalty for possession is up to seven years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

The penalty for intending to supply, including giving to friends, is up to life in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

More information and support

For help and advice concerning drugs see the page of Useful info and support in the Power room on this website.

* Drugscope independent centre on drugs; figures from Office of National Statistics.