Ecstasy, A Drug Which Continues to Cause Havoc

What is Ecstasy

Ecstasy, a man made club drug which provides an euphoric affect on its users, has become quite popular among teens and young adults. This is not to say that older individuals do not use ecstasy as a way of getting high, however it is often found around "raves", and other parties which involve a young crowd. Ecstasy first made waves when the drug was reportedly gaining popularity as a "date rape drug". Individuals would slip the drug in cocktails of those they sought to take advantage of. A combination of hallucinogen, amphetamine, and methamphetamine- the drug led to many unfortunate situations, in fact without these events the drug may have went on with little regard.

The Ecstasy Battle

Ecstasy made its debut in the late 1970's, however it was not until recent years that it became popular in the U.S. In fact, it has become one of the most widely used drugs among teens and young adults. As a result, authorities have amped up their forces to gain control of the Ecstasy market, and centers which used to treat only heroin and cocaine addicts have changed their services to include those addicted to Ecstasy. Some who use the drug do not consider themselves to be addicts, only recreational drug users; however, if used for prolonged periods of time, users will become addicted and need treatment to recover.

Ecstasy and the Brain

Ecstasy effects serotonin, which are neurotransmitters in the brain. As a result, it tends to effect one's appetite,sleep, emotions, mood, and how sensitive they are to pain. It can also effect the heart rate of users, and often causes depression, problem solving problems and memory loss. This is not for all ecstasy users, though individuals who use the drug for a prolonged period of time are more prone to feel effects from their use.

Sexual Tendencies

Ecstasy has been called an aphrodisiac because of the exceptional sexual characteristics which users tend to have when under the influence. Many find sex to be more pleasurable when using Ecstasy, than sex without it. This can often lead to individuals seeking the drug in order to enhance their experience; eventually going from ecstasy filled sexcapades to habitual use. The risk of addiction is not the only downside to this type of behavior- sex without the drug begins to feel unpleasurable.

What is XTC?

It is not uncommon for users to refer to ecstasy as XTC, or other street names- but names are not the only distinction used for the drug. Ecstasy is often stamped to show what brand of pill is being purchased. This has a lot to do with potency of the drug, as different brands are more potent than others. The drug is available in brown, white, and yellow pills, as well as capsules- however pills are more commonly used. In its original form, ecstasy is a powder, though it is pressed into pills before being sold on the street. The average price of an ecstasy pill is approximately three dollars, yet depending on location prices vary.

Knowing the Signs of Overdose

Overdosing on Ecstasy can lead to heart attacks, strokes or seizures. If anyone who uses the drug begins to feel faint, has increased palpitations, or high fever, it is important to get assistance from either a local ER, or poison control center if the incident does not seem urgent. However, local poison control centers can only provide information regarding the drug in question, and can not provide medical assistance. If it is a situation where help is needed immediately, calling the local emergency service in the user's area is more appropriate.

Mixing Ecstasy and How it Can Be Deadly

Individuals who use drugs may attempt to mix one with another- without knowing the dangers which can occur. When mixing ecstasy with another drug, it is essential to understand the consequences which can occur. Drugs which affect serotonin levels can be deadly when mixed with Ecstasy. For instance, when mixed with cocaine or alcohol, ecstasy can heart attack and stroke; it can also be detrimental when mixed with amphetamines, heroin, marijuana and other drugs as well. Among all possible combinations, alcohol mixed with ecstasy has the most reported deaths. This is why using ecstasy as a "date rape" or club drug makes no sense- for many reasons. The thought of using the drug to gain control over another is criminal, and has landed individuals in jail for doing so; chances are they were probably oblivious to the fact of just how deadly the mix could have been.

No Such Thing as a Recreational Drug

No drug is a party drug, or meant for recreational use. This goes for Ecstasy, or any other drug. Individuals who use Ecstasy should seek help if the use has gotten out of control, and if there is no addiction present- stop before it happens. Whether you use ecstasy on a regular basis, or only on weekends- it is doing nothing positive for your brain. Eventually, the neurotransmitters in the brain will go arye, and addiction will become a reality.