Drugs

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Dimethyltryptamine
Ecstasy
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Meth
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Information

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ECSTASY

Facts

• Ecstasy, or MDMA Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Is a synthetic “designer” drug, derived from methamphetamine, which is usually concocted with ingredients such as ephedrine (a decongestant) and sodium hydroxide (lye). 
• Emergency room visits involving MDMA increased nearly 2,000 percent between 1994 and 2002.   (253 to 4,023). Partnership Attitude TrackingStudy, 2003 (Partnership for a Drug-Free America)
• 41% of parents reported that they have never talked with their kids about Ecstasy.  Partnership for a Drug-Free America
• More than half of parents (52 %) say they need additional information on the dangers of Ecstasy. Partnership Attitude Tracking Study, 2003 (Partnership for a Drug-Free America)


​Appearance

• Tablets are colorful and made to look like candy.

​

• May be stamped with popular logos or brand names. 

​​

• Kandi Kids: wear outrageous, flamboyant, colorful clothing and jewelry. 
  

Exchanging colored bracelets 
​is a socialization practice
within the rave culture.

​How Ecstasy is Used or Abused

​Ecstasy comes in pill form and is most commonly administered orally, but some users snort it, inject it or use it as a rectal suppository. 

​The Effects of Ecstasy

 The Brain
​

• Ecstasy stimulates the release of serotonin, a neurochemical responsible for regulating a number of mental processes including memory, mood, thought and pleasure. Ecstasy targets neurons in the brain that use the chemical serotonin to communicate.
  
• Long-term or heavy ecstasy use can damage these neurons and cause depression, anxiety, confusion and interfere with sleep and memory.
  
• The Brain on the right shows healthy serotonin levels. Bright orange and yellow areas indicate serotonin. The image on the right was taken three weeks after the last dose of ecstasy. Serotonin levels are nearly depleted. 

Alcohol intoxication can cause​

Short Term Effects

•  Severe dehydration
• Hyperthermia
• Bruxism (teeth grinding) 
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Faintness
• Chills 

​Long Term Effects

• Sleep disorders
• Hypertension
• Seizures
• Heart failure
• Kidney failure
• Depression
• Impaired memory function

Brain scan photo: National
Institute of Drug Abuse 

​Increases High Risk Sexual Activity​

• ​Ecstasy heightens tactile sensitivity which promotes physical/sexual activity among users.
• Lowers inhibitions.
• Increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
• ​Increased risk of sexual assault.

​Other Risks​
​
​The increase in serotonin provides energy, allowing individuals to dance or engage in activities for long periods of time. Many deaths associated with this drug are a result of dehydration and heatstroke after long sessions of dancing. In addition, many ecstasy pills are made with other drugs, and can cause overdose and other adverse affects. Combining alcohol with MDMA is also dangerous and increases the risk of adverse reactions and overdose. 

​Increased Risk for Teens

• -Low perception of risk. Teens perceive that ecstasy is not dangerous because it does not have to be injected, smoked or snorted as do the so called “dirty drugs.”
  
• The rave culture promotes acceptance. For teens that are struggling to “fit in” it may seem like an attractive way to fill this need. The acronym “PLUR” which stands for Peace, Love, Unity and Respect is the motto of the rave culture.

​Signs & Symptoms of Use

• Episodes of acute euphoria while using, followed by severe bouts of depression
• Withdrawal from family
• Sudden changes in friends

• Dress or appearance depicting Ecstasy culture
• Symbols representing Ecstasy culture
•  Paraphernalia 
• Keeping odd hours 

Common Slang Terms

• X
• XTC
• E
• Hug Drug
• Love Drug
• Disco Biscuits
• Adam 

• Essence Morning Shot
• Pollutants
• Scooby Snacks
• Speed for Lovers
• Sweeties
• Party Drug

• B-bombs
  
• Clarity
  
• Wheels
  
• Wonder Drug
  
• Eve
  
• Go
  
• Decadence

Paraphernalia

Pacifiers, Suckers/Hard Candy are used to relieve grinding of teeth; a side effect of Ecstasy.

Water is provided to counteract the effects of dehydration and hyperthermia; side effects
​ of Ecstasy use.

Paint Masks are smeared
with vapor rub to heighten
​the effects of the drugs.

Glow Sticks and Laser Lights
are used at raves as
​a visual stimulant.

Bright Colored Jewelry provides visual stimulation and is a social identifier for the rave culture.

The Butterfly is a
symbol for Ecstasy

“PLUR” is the motto for the Rave Culture.  It stands for Peace, Love, Unity and Respect.