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The effects of ecstacy |
The best way to avoid problems with drugs is not using them. However, no matter how big the risk, some people will continue to try drugs, so it is important they know something about the drug they are taking and are aware of some safety measures that may reduce the risks.
What is ecstasy?
Ecstasy (also known as E, eccies, xtc and utopia) is a derivative of amphetamine (speed). It shares properties of both amphetamines and hallucinogens both in its action and side effects.
It usually takes five to 20 minutes for ecstasy to start to take effect. During this time you may feel hot and experience nausea and vomiting. Rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, anxiety and confusion may also occur.
During the plateau period (usually about four hours when swallowed) sensations of euphoria, enhanced self-awareness, self-confidence, increased visual awareness and a feeling of alertness occur. Users describe an increased capacity for concentration, greater energy, a positive mood, openness of communication and a greater sense of intimacy with those around them.
Undesirable effects can include visual hallucinations, anxiety, feelings of loss of control, panic, loss of reality, poor concentration, insomnia, irritability and depression. Physical effects can include dry mouth, involuntary jaw movements, jaw clenching, teeth grinding, restlessness, tremors, headaches and dizziness. There may also be increased sweating, hot and cold flushes, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting There have been reports of depression after regular ecstasy use and laboratory research has raised the possibility of permanent brain damage.
Contents of E tablets
Many dance party venues have facilities to test the tablets to see whether or not they are ecstasy, but these only test whether there is ecstasy present, how much ecstasy is present or whether other substances are present. Other drugs have been found in the tablets and even household chemicals and animal tranquilisers.
Risks
A number of deaths have been associated with ecstasy use. For some, the risks of taking ecstasy are far greater than for others. Some people do not have the enzyme that metabolises ecstasy in their body and can overdose.
Do not take ecstasy if you have a personal or family history of:
- heart disorders or cardiovascular disease (eg. high blood pressure, blood clots),
- any psychiatric condition (depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia),
- kidney disease,
- neurological or nervous system impairment (Parkinson’s, Tourette’s); or
- if you are taking anti-depressant, weight loss, or blood pressure medication.
Lastly, do not take ecstasy if you have had any severe and unpleasant reaction to ecstasy in the past – take it as a warning sign!
Withdrawal
The withdrawal period can include tiredness, lethargy, irritability, paranoia, anxiety, depression and a sense of not being yourself.
Harm prevention
If you do decide to take an ecstasy tablet, try to get some information from someone you trust who has tried the same batch first, and always try a small amount first.
Drink water as you are prone to dehydration because of excessive dancing and urination, but only replace what you are losing as too much water may cause “water in the brain”. If you are dancing, drink half a litre an hour, but if you are inactive drink only about a quarter of a litre. Use large dummies or suck on lollipops to ease jaw clenching and teeth grinding.
Swallowing ecstasy in its tablet form is the safest way. Snorting, smoking, shafting or shelving (via the anus), or injecting can all have serious effects.
Those attending a rave or doof party should check out the safety measures arranged by the organisers, which include security guards, first aid or ambulance attendees and fire prevention measures.
Liquid ecstasy
A new drug on the scene commonly known as ‘liquid ecstasy’ (although not actually ecstasy) or GHB is even riskier than ecstasy and can result in seizures, coma and even death. It is promoted for its ability to make one feel relaxed, happy and with a sense of inner peace. However, it is difficult to know how much to take because most GHB is homemade and its strength varies from batch to batch. Even the home manufacturers note how easy it is to overdose on this drug.
The drug is colourless and odourless making it easy to be mixed with water or other drinks at a rave without you knowing, so keep your drinks capped and in your sight.
If you are worried about your drug use and would like advice and help, speak to your GP.
Gareth Daniels is the project officer for the drug and alcohol project conducted by the Northern Rivers and Tweed Valley divisions of general practice.
Editor's note: According to an article in Australian Doctor (19/09/03), ecstacy users face a risk of severe acute liver injury, which in some cases may require a liver transplant. Liver injury appeared to be a reaction that was not related to the duration of ecstacy use or the dose used, Dr Simone Strasser, a hepatologist at the Australian National Liver Transplantation Unit at Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, told Australian Doctor. Dr Strasser is also a member of the Adverse Drug Reactions Advisory Committee. She cited seven cases in Australia, one of whom needed a liver transplant.
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