MDMA

Commonly known as ‘ecstasy’, in its street pill form, MDMA’s nickname may also include the presence of possible adulterants.

Euphoria, diminished anxiety and a sense of intimacy with others are possible effects induced by MDMA. Some reports suggest that MDMA may have therapeutic benefits. In the fields of psychology and cognitive therapy, clinical trials are in place for potential MDMA post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and helping to relieve anxiety associated with terminal cancer.

MDMA has shown to be highly addictive for some people. As much as 43% of young adult and adolescent MDMA users surveyed met the accepted diagnostic criteria for dependence. This is based on continued use despite knowledge of physical or psychological harm, withdrawal effects, and 34% met the criteria for drug abuse. Fatigue, loss of appetite, trouble concentrating and depressed feelings has all been reported by almost 60% of people who use MDMA.

Similar in the number of cocaine, opiate and amphetamine users, the UN estimated that between 10 to 25 million people used MDMA at least once in the 2008.

Effects such as anxiety, depression, irritability, paranoia, fatigue loss of focus and concentration, motivation and drive, as well as residual feelings of empathy, and emotional sensitivity were all reported by users once the acute effects of MDMA had worn off.