3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, Ecstasy) and Driving Impairment
Journal of Forensic Sciences – November 01, 2001
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, significantly impairs driving abilities, with 100% of five tested drivers failing field sobriety assessments. In a review of eighteen cases of MDMA-related impaired driving, symptoms included muscle twitching, tremors, dilated pupils, and poor coordination. Notably, six drivers had blood tests confirming MDMA presence alone. While the effects varied widely among individuals, these findings underscore that MDMA use compromises safe driving and may lead to prolonged impairment even after the drug's effects seem to fade.
Abstract
Abstract 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA, is increasing in popularity in the United States as a drug of abuse. It has stimulant and empathogenic mood altering properties with the potential to affect psychomotor skills and impact driving. This report reviews the literature relating to the relevant psychomotor effects of the drug, the relationship between dose and blood concentrations, and studies and case reports on specific effects of the drug on driving. The latter reports include both laboratory driving simulator studies and anecdotal reports, and case series. We also report details of eighteen cases of apparent MDMA impaired driving, including six drivers whose blood tested positive for MDMA alone. Most subjects displayed muscle twitching and body tremors, dilated pupils, slow pupillary reaction to light, elevated pulse and blood pressure, lack of balance and coordination, and most were perspiring profusely. Five of the six subjects were given field sobriety tests (one leg stand, walk and turn test), and all five performed poorly. There was no clear correlation between the blood concentration of MDMA and the specific demeanor of the subject. These findings are consistent with other reports, and lead to the conclusion that MDMA use is not consistent with safe driving, and that impairment of various types may persist for a considerable time after last use.