Ecstasy, The ‘Party Drug’
Called 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine by scientists, ecstasy is a synthetic oil that is derived from the oils of the sassafras tree. The effect of the drug is similar to that of amphetamines and hallucinogens. Street names of ecstasy include E, Adam, Roll, Bean, X and XTC. It is usually available in the form of yellow or white pills.
The drug was made completely illegal in 1985 and it has been classified as a schedule 1 drug along with others like cocaine, heroin and LSD. Possession of this drug can lead to a fine as high as a hundred thousand dollars or imprisonment for up to 99 years depending on the quantity that is seized on the person.
When is Ecstasy Used Commonly?
While ecstasy is a drug that is consumed as a pill most of the time, it can also be injected. Some crush the tablet into a powder and then snort it and others still have been known to shove the pill up the anus for more instant effects.
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Since ecstasy behaves like amphetamines and hallucinogens, it increases the speed of the nervous system and makes you feel lighter. Due to the relaxed feeling that the drug induces, it is also called the “love drug.”
Symptoms of Ecstasy Consumption
Once taken the effects of ecstasy start to show within 20 minutes of consumption. These last for about 4 to 6 hours. Evidence of consumption can persist for 90 days in a
hair drug test. The most common symptoms include:
- Higher heart rate
- Higher body temperature
- Increased blood pressure
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Lack of appetite
- Increased confidence
- A feeling of “all is well”
- Anxiety
In addition to these there is also confusion, insomnia, paranoia, depression and craving. Muscle tension, bruxism (aka teeth grinding), fever, chills and sweating are also common. Sometimes irrational behavior, convulsions, rhabdomolysis or muscle melt down, hallucinations and excessive thirst is common in some severe cases.
The issue is that ecstasy is almost always considered to be a party drug. When accompanied with excessive physical activity like dancing, it can result in dehydration. On the other hand, drinking too much water can also lead to issues and you may have to monitor water intake properly.
If you see symptoms like excessive intake of water, severe headache and nausea, you should call the ambulance for help.
Hangover effects of ecstasy include depression, insomnia, drowsiness, and loss of concentration.
Long Term Problems of Ecstasy Consumption
Recent studies have shown that constant use of ecstasy can result in memory loss. As the serotonin in the system is eroded, moods, change and disruption of sleeping patterns, sensitivity to pain and sexual desire also go through significant changes.
A further reason that ecstasy is replete with harmful effects is the fact the ecstasy that is available can have some dangerous impurities. Since some of the ingredients may be difficult to get cheap and dangerous substitutes may be used. This can cause harmful overheating, hallucinations, faster heart beat, breathing issues and eventually death.
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Article by Anne Hamilton