MDMA Research Paper

Introduction 3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine is more commonly known as MDMA or its street names Ecstasy or “Molly.” In 1912, it was initially developed as an appetite suppressant and used in the 1960s for psychotherapy medication (CJASN). The drug transitioned into being used recreationally for parties and music festivals that caused feelings of euphoria, heightened emotions, and amplified energy. The drug was banned in 1985 when people became concerned about its safeness. Most of the Ecstasy found on the black market contain little to no MDMA which increases the dangers to users. Instead, it is replaced with MDA and PMA which cause similar effects, but are highly toxic. The drug is often combined with other substances that include …show more content…
Many teens and young adults view the culture of music festivals as a haven for them to use drugs to amplify the effects of the music and scene. In some cases, the drug is taken at parties or even at home. There have been an increased amount of news reports of many young adults and teens overdosing or overheating on the drugs and being escorted to a medical facility. Unfortunately, many lives have been lost this way. This issue needs to be discussed to make more people aware of the detrimental consequences of using the drug …show more content…
It has become a cultural norm to see attendees under the influence of Ecstasy. Additionally, it has been found that Ecstasy users take the drug because they believe that it is safe to use because it has a low toxicity and is not harmful to the body (Medscape). This plays a pivotal role in the increased popularity of the drug in the past several years. However, users are misinformed about how the drug interacts with the body. MDMA has a prevalence for abuse and has toxicity levels that are unpredictable (Medscape). Users can also experience the negative side effects of the drug which can result in long-term or permanent physical and psychological consequences. Ecstasy can cause users to experience overheating, which has been seen as the main cause of deaths. The scene of a rave can dramatize the overheating as it is combined with dancing and humid environments (Ecstasy). Meanwhile, some users have educated themselves about the dangers of overheating and dehydration and have found sources that say they can avoid these conditions if they drink large quantities of water. Again, these users are misinformed as an over consumption of water can lead to water toxicity or hyponatremia. This increases the risk of organ swelling which can lead to coma or even death (Ecstasy). Society should also be