Drug Names & Common Distribution

MDMA also known by the street name of “ecstasy” is a synthetic drug with both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. Ecstasy is typically distributed:

• Bars
• Beach Resorts
• College Universities (at or near them)
• Dance Clubs
• High Schools
• Raves Parties
• Urban Areas

What are the risks

The effects produced by consuming MDMA can last for 4 to 6 hours, depending upon the potency of the tablet. Using the drug can cause confusion, depression, anxiety, sleeplessness, craving for the drug, and paranoia. Use of the drug also may result in muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching, nausea, blurred vision, tremors, rapid eye movement, sweating, or chills. People who have circulatory problems or heart disease face particular risks because MDMA can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

MDMA abusers also risk dehydration, hyperthermia (exceptionally high fever), and heart or kidney failure if they use the drug while physically exerting themselves or in hot environments. (These factors pose particular risks to individuals who use MDMA at raves or techno parties, where they may be dancing among crowds of people.)

Physical Reaction

MDMA in its true form works in the brain by increasing the activity levels of at least three neuro-transmitters, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. MDMA causes these neurotransmitters to be released from their storage sites in neurons result in increased brain activity. By releasing large amounts of serotonin and also interfering with its synthesis, MDMA caused the brain to become significantly depleted of this important neurotransmitter. As a result, it takes the human brain time to rebuild its serotonin levels. Persistent deficits in serotonin are likely responsible for many of the persistent behavioral effects that the user experiences.