Experts are concerned that long term use of Ecstasy may increase the risk of severe depression and other mental illnesses in later life

The biggest danger posed by "E" in the close sweaty environment of a club or rave is that of. "Heat Stroke"

Emergency Tips
1
if someone faints
Call an ambulance immediately.

2
Put the person in the recover position Loosen any tight clothing that might restrict breathing

3
Check their breathing. If they are not breathing, use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

4
When ambulance crew arrives, explain what has happened and what you have done.

Ecstasy
Official Names: M.D.M.A.
Street Name: "E", Disco Biscuits, Rhubarb, and Custard, "Dennis the Menace", "Shamrock", Disco Burgers, Love Doves, United, Cities.
Drug Effect: Hallucinogenic Amphetamine

What is it?
Effects
Risks
Law
First-Aid response

What is it?
Ecstasy is one of the members of the M.D.A. family. It combines some of the effects of amphetamine and hallucinogens such as LSD. It is usually sold as tablets with a range of distinctive markings and colours. (hence the variety of street names).

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Effects
• Ecstasy is usually taken at "raves" or at discos to produce a feeling of relaxation with increased energy, happiness and flexibility. In addition it causes a calming effect with a warm friendly feeling towards others hence it is known as "the love drug". Users generally feel less inhibited, experience everything more intensely. Ecstasy takes effect in 20-60 minutes, usually is at its height for about 2 hours and can last for several hours after that.

• Aggressive, violent feelings are suppressed; there may be increased self-awareness and increased perception of vision and music.

• In addition to these, M.D.M.A causes a rise in blood pressure, heartbeat and temperature. Other physical effects include a tingling sensation on the skin, jaw stiffness, pupil dilatation, grinding of the teeth, dry mouth, tremors, muscle tension and blurred vision. Palpitations and sweating after using the drug can occur.

• When the effects subside there is frequently a feeling of tiredness. Some users report a "head rush" while on the drug, which results in a blanking out of sound and vision for up to three minutes.

• Whether the experience is "bad or good" often depends on the mood and expectations of the user and how comfortable the user feels in their immediate surroundings

• Anyone suffering from epilepsy, diabetes, asthma or pre-existing heart disease is particularly vulnerable to having symptoms brought on suddenly with severe consequences.
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Risks
• Experts are concerned that long term use of ecstasy may increase the risk of severe depression and other mental illnesses in later life. The biggest danger with "E" in the close sweaty environment of a club or rave is that of. "heat stroke" The drug causes body-temperature to rise, and if the user then dances, for hours it rises even more. Literally, pints of body fluids can be sweated out, and a sudden rise in body temperatures, can lead to blood clotting in places where it shouldn't, often the lungs, Air is blocked, leading to convulsion, coma and death. Signs of heatstroke include; heat cramps in the legs, arms and back, dizziness, headache, vomiting, fainting, sudden attacks of extreme fatigue and irritability.

• General advice for all users is to take a pint of fluid per hour (not alcohol -it also dehydrates) to avoid heat stroke. Sip no more than a pint of fluid, fruit juice, isotonic drink or water is recommended. Drinking too much water is also a risk.

• No two "E" tabs are the same: because they are produced synthetically they are often mixed with a wide range of substances which can adversely effect the user.

• Pyschological addiction occurs with repeated usage. Increasingly large amounts are needed to achieve the same results.
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Law
• Under Misuse of Drugs Act, it is illegal to sell, possess or supply this drug.
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First - Aid response
If feelings of tension, anxiety and panic arise
• Calm the person down and be reassuring.

• Talk quietly and explain that these feelings will pass.

• Keep them away from loud noises and bright lights.

• If they begin to breathe very quickly, calm them down and encourage them to take long slow breaths.

If someone is overheating
• Move to a cooler, quiet area (outside is often best).

• Remove excess clothing and try to cool them down.

• Encourage them to sip non-alcoholic fluids such as soft drinks.

• If symptoms persist, call an ambulance, but make sure that someone stays with them.

What to do if someone faints
• Call an ambulance immediately. Put the person in the recovery position.

• Loosen any tight clothing that might restrict breathing Check their breathing.

• If they are not breathing, use mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. When ambulance crew arrives, explain what has happened and what you have done.

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