Ecstasy/ MDMA

WHAT IS ECSTASY / MDMA?

Ecstasy, or methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), is an illegal stimulant drug that speeds up messages from the brain to the body.

OTHER NAMES:

Ecstasy, E, XTC, eccy, the love drug, pills, googs. Ecstasy comes onto the market in batches. A particular batch will often be given a nickname or known by the logo or design it is imprinted with, e.g. White Lightning Bolt, Crowns, Mitsubishi, Versace, Ninja Turtle and Hearts.

UNDERSTANDING:

Ecstasy is sometimes referred to as ‘the love drug’ due to the temporary feelings of love and affection that users may experience. A young person who has recently used ecstasy may display increased energy, happiness and alertness and be super chatty, optimistic and affectionate.
The high is usually felt within 30 minutes and can last between three and six hours.

In some instances, young people using ecstasy may feel anxious and paranoid, and comedowns can leave young people feeling, drained, tired and weepy or unable to sleep. Whilst all dealers will claim that their pill contains only pure MDMA, ecstasy is often cut with other cheaper (and more dangerous) fillers.

Many people who use ecstasy regularly employ pill testing kits and use internet forums to check that their pill comes from a safe batch. A student who is experiencing ecstasy for the first time may not take such precautions and end up with a bad pill or even an overdose. Seizures, vomiting, dizziness or cramps should all be taken seriously if ecstasy use is suspected and an ambulance should be called immediately.

For a more comprehensive guide, we recommend the ADF’s fact sheet and Harm Reduction Victoria’s fact sheet.