Key Points

Ecstasy is known as the party drug as it is predominantly taken in parties, nightclubs, festivals and raves.

It mostly comes in a pill form and when it is in its powder form it is known as MDMA. It is a mainly a white powder however the pills can come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours.

When ingested it can taste quiet bitter. The pills can be crushed and snorted as well as dabbed on the gums.

It is a stimulant drug that has hallucinogenic effects.

Street names include:

• E
• XTC
• MD
• Pills
• Pingers
• Beans

The Law:

Ecstasy is a class A drug, so therefore it is illegal to be found in possession, supplying or producing it.

Possession can lead to 7 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Supply or dealing Ecstasy can lead to a life in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

Driving under the influence of drugs is dangerous and illegal. You may get a heavy fine, driving ban or prison sentence, possibly all three.

Effects on the body and Risks

Most people feel happy and full of energy. Some also feel “loved up” and have affection for those around them.

It can make sounds and images very intense and vivid for users. Hence why it is taken mainly at parties, clubs and festivals.

When taken orally it takes roughly 30 mins to kick in, sometimes longer sometimes shorter depending on the purity of the pill.

Its effects can last from 2 hours up to 4 hours.

It can lead to increase heart rate and insomnia after taken it. It last up to 4 days in your system.

The Risks

Ecstasy is a stimulant drug and therefore can lead to users sweating a lot. This leads to rapid dehydration and can lead to kidney problems, severe headaches and collapse

In response to this, drinking too much water when taking ecstasy is risky. Ecstasy causes a hormone to be released which stops the body urinating. Which can cause the user to slip into a coma and die if not treated medically. USERS SHOULD SIP NO MORE THAN PINT OF WATER EVERY HALF HOUR.

Ecstasy and other white powders can be mixed and cut with other substances. Take small amounts to start with. Added to the fact that purity can be quite high which can lead to overdose.

There are also mental health risks such anxiety, depression and psychosis attributed to use.

With all substances there is a risk you may overdose and die.