Ecstasy (MDMA), amphetamine, and LSD: comparative mood profiles in recreational polydrug users
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – September 01, 1997
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, elicits unique mood effects compared to LSD and amphetamine. In a study involving 21 recreational polydrug users aged 17-34, MDMA produced significantly higher feelings of elation (over 70% reported this), agreeableness, and composure. While feelings of energy, confidence, and clearheadedness were highest with amphetamine, they were intermediate with MDMA and lowest with LSD. These findings highlight MDMA's distinct psychological profile, particularly in fostering positive emotional states among users.
Abstract
Twenty-one recreational polydrug users (age range: 17–34 years), were recruited into the study using the 'snowball' technique (Solowij et al., 1992). All had used MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or 'Ecstasy'), LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), and amphetamine, on different occasions. They completed modified Profile of Mood States Questionnaires, to indicate their typical feeling states while on each drug. With three of the POMS factors, MDMA was intermediate between LSD and amphetamine, with feelings of energy, confidence and clearheadedness, highest under amphetamine, lowest on LSD, and intermediate after Ecstasy. However in other respects MDMA's mood profile was more unique, with significantly higher feelings of elation, agreeableness and composure, than the other two drugs. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.