MDMA

Just Say Know!

Name(s): ECSTASY, PILLS, PINGAS, BIKKIES, M, MD, CAPS, MOLLY, MANDY

Chemical Compound:
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine).
Ecstasy could include other substances such as PMA, PMMA, MDEA, MDA, methamphetamine, caffeine, ketamine, BZP, 4-MMC (mephedrone), and mCPP.

MDMA is a psychedelic stimulant and the intended active ingredient of ecstasy. It belongs to a class of drugs called entactogens – taken from the Latin for “touch within”. MDMA causes an increase of serotonin (one of the brain’s ‘happy’ chemicals) in the brain. Because MDMA is illegal, adulterants (contaminants/ cutting agents) are common in drugs sold as ecstasy. These can include PMA/PMMA, BZP, methamphetamine, DXM, and others. Some of these adulterants are much more dangerous than MDMA. This resource is primarily focused on the effects of MDMA, rather than these substitutes and adulterants.

Know your mind, know your body, know your substance, and know your limits.

General Information

How it’s Taken: Most commonly swallowed but can be snorted or shelved (rectal insertion).

Duration of Effects:
Total duration: 4-6 hours
Onset: 20-90 minutes
Peak: 2-3 hours
Coming down: 1-2 hours
Hangover/after-effects: 2-72+ hours
Even though the apparent effects of the drug wear off after 5 hours, the drug is still active in your system for 10 hours after you have taken it. It is important to remember this if choosing to use other substances. Read how to manage a comedown HERE

Most Common Effects:

• Increased energy

• Decreased appetite

• Dilated pupils

• Increased tactile and visual sensitivity

• Dry mouth, jaw clenching and teeth grinding

• Nausea and vomiting

• Restlessness

• Increased heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature

• Delay or difficulty reaching orgasm          

• A sense of inner peace and acceptance

• Mood lift, euphoria Increased love and empathy

• Feelings of comfort, belonging and closeness with others Increased desire to communicate

• Decreased fear, anxiety and insecurities

*Effects vary greatly from one person to another

Less Common Effects:

• Visual distortions

• Involuntary eye wobbles

• Erectile dysfunction

• Reduced vaginal lubrication

• Increased or decreased sexual satisfaction

• Headache

• Dizziness or loss of balance

• Lifechanging spiritual experiences

• Increased emotional sensitivity

Rare Effects:

• Psychological crisis (psychotic episodes, panic attacks, etc)

• Short term memory loss or confusion

• Bright and intense sensations or mild visual hallucinations

Possible Long-term effects:

• Cognitive impairments including memory problems

• Kidney failure

• Risk of psychosis

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Cardiovascular complications

Call 000 if experiencing an adverse effects, feel unwell or concerned in any way

Safer Using Tips :

Taking drugs is never without risk. Information on dose and length of action are of a general nature. Each person’s response to a drug will depend heavily upon individual factors such as body weight, kidney and liver function. Because most illicit drugs are of unknown purity and weight, use caution when dosing, start low and go slow.

• A standard dose for most people is between 70 mg and 125 mg. This is dependent on body weight, tolerance, and other factors.

• Contents, purity, and strength of MDMA crystals and pills can vary greatly, so start with a smaller dose (quarter or half) to  test the effects.

• Reagent test kits are legal and available to purchase online and can provide an estimation of the contents of drugs.

• If you are using MDMA for the first time, or you have a low tolerance, start with a low dose (quarter or half).

• Give the drug plenty of time to take effect; wait at least 2 hours before redosing. Some substitutes (such as PMA) take longer than MDMA to take effect, as well as being much more toxic. Redosing too soon could be fatal.

• Redosing once may enhance and prolong effects of MDMA but further redosing is more likely to increase side effects.

• Use in a safe environment with people that you trust.

• Do not drink too much water as this can be fatal. Drink 1 cup of water (250 mL) per hour when relaxing or 2 cups (500 mL) per hour when dancing/exercising. Switch water with an electrolyte drink from time to time.

• Eat well before and after using MDMA; your body needs fuel for you to have a good time.

• Take regular breaks from dancing or other exercise. MDMA increases your body temperature which can lead to heat stroke.

• Find out what other people’s experience has been with the batch you are taking and if there have been any negative side effects. Ask friends and check  www.pillreports.com.

• Be aware that there is a lot of misinformation online and in the community about purity or strength of  pills/caps.

• Buy from a trusted source who will share information about changes in quality or purity.

• Studies have shown that high doses of MDMA may damage the serotonin pathways in your brain. More is not always better.

• Allow your body time to recover after using MDMA. Avoid repeated use for at least 2 weeks after using MDMA. Using MDMA too often can increase the negative effects on the brain and will cause increased tolerance and decreased enjoyment. Read how to manage a comedown HERE

• Taking magnesium supplements may decrease jaw clenching and muscle tension. Read about which supplements can reduce harm and increase harm HERE

• MDMA can increase feelings of intimacy, sexual attraction, and sexual stimulation. Everyone involved in any sexual activity must be as enthusiastic as you before proceeding and during the experience. Use lots of lube, stay hydrated, and take breaks during any extended sessions.

• SNORTING

• Snort water before and after to avoid damaging the protective lining in your nose

• To reduce the risk of transmission of HIV and  hep C, do not use bank notes or share straws. Use your own clean straw.

• SHELVING

• Find a discreet and safe place to do it.

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after.

• Use lube to avoid tearing skin.

• Use a condom or latex glove to avoid internal scratches

Unsafe Combinations:

MDMA combined with…

• Antidepressants = risk of serotonin syndrome* or can counteract the effects of the drug

• 5HTP/L-Tryptophan = risk of serotonin syndrome*

• PMA = extreme risk of fatal serotonin syndrome*

• Other stimulants = heart strain

• Cannabis = intense combined experience – it’s best to wait until the ecstasy effects wear off before smoking cannabis

• Alcohol = both substances cause dehydration – approach with moderation and remain hydrated. If you’re already drunk, it’s best not to take MDMA

*Serotonin syndrome is a potentially fatal condition caused by an overload of serotonin on the central nervous system. Read more about serotonin syndrome HERE

Take a look at the TripSit drug combinations chart HERE for info on other combinations

MDMA is not recommended to take if you have or have had:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Other mental health issues
• Heart problems
• High blood pressure

Speak to you doctor for more info on drug combinations/health conditions. Call (02) 8354 7300 or 1800 644 413 (free call) for referrals

Roadside Drug test:

It is illegal to drive under the influence of any illicit drugs, including MDMA. MDMA is detectable by a saliva test for at least 24-48 hours after use. It’s best not to drive until the effects have  completely worn off and you have had  a decent sleep. Make sure you take this into consideration when planning your ride home from a festival or event

Read more about Mobile Drug Testing HERE