What It Is:
Ecstasy (3, 4-methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine, or MDMA) is a drug that is illegally
made.
Ecstasy is a stimulant drug that can cause hallucinations.
It is known as a designer drug because it was created for the purpose of making someone
feel high. The drug is popular with teens and young adults who go to clubs, concerts,
or "rave" parties.
Users think the drug will make them feel good and
keep them going for days without rest. But people who use Ecstasy don't realize how
dangerous this drug is.
Ecstasy has become one of the most common illegal
drugs sold on the streets. In the last few years, Ecstasy has sent many people to
emergency rooms because of its dangerous side effects.
Sometimes Called:
XTC, X, Adam, E, Roll, A, 007, Molly
How It's Used:
Ecstasy can be swallowed (pill or tablet) or snorted (powder).
What It Does:
Ecstasy is both a hallucinogenic and a stimulant drug. It makes users experience
a rush of good feelings (a high) and makes feelings much more intense, whether they're
good or bad. The drug's effects usually last up to 6 hours.
Ecstasy increases heart rate and can cause dry mouth,
clenched teeth, blurred vision, chills, sweating, or nausea. It can make some users
feel anxious, confused, and paranoid, like someone is trying to hurt them or is plotting
against them. Ecstasy may damage brain cells that are involved in thinking and memory.
If a person takes Ecstasy, his or her body can dangerously
overheat during dancing or other physical activities, which can lead to muscle breakdown;
kidney, liver, and heart damage; and even death. Ecstasy use can cause seizures, brain
swelling, possible brain damage, and even death.
