Ecstasy (MDMA, eckies or E)

What is it?

Ecstasy is a hallucinogenic stimulant drug normally associated with clubbing. It usually comes in tablet form that varies in shape, size and colour. The tablets often have a symbol on them. Ecstasy can affect people in different ways – generally it makes you feel very sociable. Users experience a rush, alertness and a feeling of closeness to others. It normally takes effect within 30-60 minutes and can last for up to 4-6 hours.

Short-term effects

The effects depend on how much is consumed. Individual factors such as body weight, gender, the strength of the drug, mood, physical and mental health, how you take it, where you take it and whether or not it is mixed with other drugs including alcohol also have an impact.

Effects can include overheating and becoming dehydrated. This can be fatal, particularly if users dance without breaks and/or drink alcohol. Users should drink up to a pint of liquid (non-alcoholic) every hour and eat a salty snack from time to time if possible. Users may experience tension in the jaw muscle, anxiety and paranoia. Ecstasy can lead to a feeling of depression and tiredness for a few days after use. This is known as a comedown. Taken in large amounts, ecstasy can result in hallucinations.
As with any drug, users should test the strength of it by using a small amount first (quarter or half a tablet).

Long-term effects

Ecstasy use has been linked to mental health problems and to kidney, liver, heart and brain damage. If you have a heart problem, a respiratory condition such as asthma, or epilepsy, you can have a serious reaction to ecstasy.

Harm reduction

Users should drink (sip) up to a pint of a non-alcoholic drink every hour, especially in hot nightclubs when dancing. This will help reduce the risk of overheating and dehydration. They should also take dance breaks to allow the body temperature to cool down.

Users should take a quarter or half a tablet to gauge the strength of the drug, and the side effects of drugs that may have been added to the ecstasy.

Avoid alcoholic drinks as this can also result in dehydration.

The law

Ecstasy is a Class A drug; it is illegal to possess, give away or sell.

Possessing ecstasy can lead to a prison sentence of up to 7 years, an unlimited fine or both. Supplying ecstasy can lead to a life sentence, an unlimited fine or both.

Driving while under the influence of drugs is against the law and you can still be unfit to drive the day after taking ecstasy. This can lead to a heavy fine, disqualification from driving and even a prison sentence in some cases.

If you are convicted of a drug-related offence it can stop you travelling to certain countries and affect the types of jobs you can apply for.

If you are using ecstasy (or any other substances), are worried about someone else’s use or would just like to know more, please contact us for more information.