Ecstasy is scientifically known as MDMA (3-4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine). It is basically a synthetic chemical, which can be derived from an essential oil of the sassafras tree.  MDMA is also one of the easily available illegal drugs in today’s date. The side effects of Ecstasy are similar to those of amphetamines and hallucinogens.  Ecstasy is widely distributed and can be found almost anywhere. It has become a popular drug at social events like rave parties, hip hops and concerts. Most of these events are attended by both adults and youth.

Brief history of Ecstasy

The drug Ecstasy or MDMA was first developed as an appetite suppressant in the year 1914. It was initially used as a psychotherapeutic tool and was easily available on the street side shops during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Later in the year 1985, due to the increasing harmful effects it was declared as illegal. Ecstasy along with other narcotics like heroin, cocaine and LSD, is classified as a “Schedule 1″ controlled substance.

Today, the possession, delivery or manufacturing of Ecstasy is considered as illegal and a penalty of $100,000 can be levied. The penalty may also extend to 99 years or life imprisonment. The extent of penalty depends on the quantity of the drug seized.

Why is Ecstasy harmful

The main reason behind Ecstasy being labeled as harmful is the lack of content control. The ingredients that are required to prepare the drug are difficult to get. Due to this, the manufacturers of the drug often employ substitutes. They mix other injurious additives in the content making it harmful.  There are many drug stores that provide “drug test kits” along with the drugs so that the users can test for purity.

How is the Ecstasy pill used

There are various ways in which Ecstasy can be taken. It depends on how the user feels comfortable. It is usually taken in the following ways:

• It can be swallowed
• It can be injected
• There are some users who are known to crush and inhale the resulting powder.
• It can be inserted into the anus. This practice is known as “shafting.”

The positive effects of Ecstasy pill:

Ecstasy is very similar in nature to the other drugs like hallucinogens and amphetamines.  It is known to pace up the nervous system and act as a mood booster.  It is therefore also referred to as “the love drug”. It makes the user feel good, joyful and relaxed. Contrary to the rumors, the Ecstasy pill is not an aphrodisiac drug.

The drugs are known to affect different people differently. The main factors that can be taken into consideration while in taking drugs are:

• Size
• Weight
• Health
• Drug dosage

The reaction of the drugs can be mild or severe depending upon the above mentioned factors. The people who are suffering from diseases like heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy, mental illness or panic should avoid taking the Ecstasy pill.

Common Side Effects of Ecstasy

The Ecstasy pill can cause side effects in many people. The side effects mostly start within 20 minutes of taking the pill and can last for 4 – 6 hours or longer. Some of the common side effects are:

• Increased heart rate
• Nausea
• Feelings of well-being
• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety
• Increased body temperature
• Increased blood pressure
• Increased level of confidence

However, it has been reported that taking higher doses of MDMA can cause convulsions, irrational behavior and hallucinations.  The users have reported having problems with paranoia, insomnia, nervousness, concentration and depression after taking the drug. One must therefore abstain from taking higher dose or overdose of Ecstasy. Overdose of Ecstasy can result in the following:

• Extremely high body temperatures
• High blood pressure
• Hallucinations
• Fast Heartbeat
• Problems in breathing
• Death

What is Herbal Ecstasy

Herbal Ecstasy is another form of MDMA that is composed of ephedrine (ma huang) or pseudoephedrine and caffeine. These are extracted from the kola nut.  This drug is also sold in the tablet form. It is also known as Herbal Bliss, Cloud 9, Ritual Spirit, Herbal X, GWM, Rave Energy, Ultimate Xphoria and X. It is not yet classified as a controlled substance. Herbal Ecstasy also shares many of the same qualities and effects as that of MDMA.

Ecstasy and Anti-Depressants:

People who are currently using MAOI should not take Ecstasy pills.  MAOIs can most commonly be seen in anti-depressants like Nardil (phenelzine), Parnete (tranylcypromine), Marplan (isocarboxazid), Eldepryl (I-deprenyl), and Aurorex or Manerix (moclobermide).

Use of Ecstasy in Pregnancy

There was a study published in the issue of the Journal of Neuroscience (May 1, 2001). The study dealt with the results that showed that exposure (of rats) to Ecstasy. It was proved that the drugs caused memory and learning problems to the unborn rats.  The Ecstasy pill should thus never be taken during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a medical practitioner.