Ecstasy

Ecstasy is similar (in nature) to other amphetamines and hallucinogens. It speeds up the nervous system and acts as a mood enhancer. Also referred to as “the love drug”, Ecstasy often makes the user feel good, happy and relaxed - at least at first. Users tend to think Ecstasy is "harmless fun," but it does pose serious health risks. Researchers are learning more all of the time about the damage Ecstasy causes. What is already known about Ecstasy, including the brain damage and fatalities it causes. "Pure" Ecstasy is uncommon. Batches frequently contain heroin, LSD, amphetamines and other assorted toxic impurities which are used as fillers. Contrary to rumors, Ecstasy is not an aphrodisiac and can actually inhibit sexual performance. Ecstasy affects people differently. Depending on size, weight, health, dosage and other drugs being used, the reaction can be mild or very severe. Ecstasy is distributed in tablet form and are often imprinted with graphic designs or commercial logos.

Additional Information on Ecstasy:

• In 2000, more than 6.4 million people age 12 and older reported that they have used Ecstasy at least once in their lives.
• Ecstasy is popular among middle-class adolescents and young adults.
• Ecstasy is sold primarily at legitimate nightclubs and bars, at underground nightclubs sometimes called "acid houses," or at all-night parties known as "raves."
• The vast majority of Ecstasy consumed domestically is produced in Europe.
• A limited number of Ecstasy laboratories operate in the United States.
• Law enforcement seized 17 clandestine Ecstasy laboratories in the United States in 2001 compared to 7 seized in 2000.
• It costs as little as 25 to 50 cents to manufacture an Ecstasy tablet in Europe, but the street value of that same Ecstasy tablet can be as high as $40, with a tablet typically selling for between $20 and $30.
• In addition to chemical stimulation, the drug reportedly suppresses the need to eat, drink, or sleep.
• When taken at raves, where all-night dancing usually occurs, the drug often leads to severe dehydration and heat stroke in the user since it has the effect of "short-circuiting" the body's temperature signals to the brain.
• An Ecstasy overdose is characterized by a rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, faintness, muscle cramping, panic attacks, and, in more severe cases, loss of consciousness or seizures.
• One of the side effects of the drug is jaw muscle tension and teeth grinding. As a consequence, Ecstasy users will often suck on pacifiers to help relieve the tension.
• Ecstasy may cause hypothermia, muscle breakdown, seizures, stroke, kidney and cardiovascular system failure, possible permanent damage to sections of brain critical to thought and memory, and death.