Currently the top party drug in the United States according to government surveys, Ecstasy claims a number of young lives year. And despite the numerous dangers associated with the drug, most teenagers continue to use it as if there were no ill effects.
The following is an introductory course in Ecstasy for parents who want to come prepared when they talk to their children about this dangerous drug.
10 Important Facts about Ecstasy
- Ecstasy (or MDMD as it also known) is a mind altering drug that has been found to cause brain damage in users.
- Most people take Ecstasy in pill form, although some snort the drug or inject it using a hypodermic needle.
- A single dose of Ecstasy lasts three to four hours and creates enhanced enjoyment of physical activities and provides a rush of energy.
- Ecstasy carries a variety of harmful side effects, many of which can occur after just a single use. These side effects include: confusion, sleeplessness, depression, paranoia, psychotic episodes and craving for more of the drug.
- Most Ecstasy overdoses occur when the drug is mixed with other substances such as alcohol, marijuana or crystal meth.
- Long term Ecstasy use can cause heart failure, kidney failure and a permanent disabling of the brain’s ability to store memories or think clearly.
- Ecstasy causes the individual to become dehydrated, which combined with dancing in a hot, crowded night club or party can quickly cause death.
- The National Institute on Drug Abuse has found that 3.6% of all high school seniors have used Ecstasy in the past year, and 3.3% of all 10th graders have used the drug in that same time span.
- Ecstasy goes by several slang street names, including: Ecstasy ‘E’, MDMA, MDA, MDEA, Pills, Love Doves, and Adam.
- “Bumps” refers to the action of taking more Ecstasy just before the effects of the last dose are ready to wear off. In most overdose cases, the individual engaged in “bumps” at some point during the period leading up to the event.
Teenagers who are using Ecstasy are putting their lives at risk every time they use the drug. Parents are urged to use the information above as a “jumping off point” to begin frank discussions with their children about this, and other potentially harmful drugs.