'Eve' and 'Ecstasy'
JAMA – March 27, 1987
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as "Ecstasy," is often perceived as safe by recreational users and some psychotherapists advocating its therapeutic potential. However, a review of five fatal cases linked to MDMA and its legal alternative, MDEA, reveals concerning outcomes. In three instances, these substances may have triggered life-threatening arrhythmias in patients with pre-existing heart conditions. Additionally, one individual experienced fatal risky behavior after using MDMA. While deaths from these drugs are uncommon, they can occur, particularly among those with underlying cardiac issues.
Abstract
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "Ecstasy"), a synthetic analogue of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine, has been the center of recent debate over its potential for abuse vs its use as a psychotherapeutic agent. Following its emergency classification in Schedule 1 by the Drug Enforcement Administration in 1985, 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA,"Eve") has appeared as MDMA's legal replacement. MDMA is thought to be safe by recreational users and by psychotherapists who support its use. The details of five deaths associated with the use of MDMA and MDEA are reported. In three patients, MDMA or MDEA may have contributed to death by the induction of arrhythmias in individuals with underlying natural disease. In another patient, use of MDMA preceded an episode of bizarre and risky behavior that resulted in accidental death. In another patient, MDMA was thought to be the immediate cause of death. Death as a consequence of the use of these drugs appears to be rare, but it does occur; this outcome may be more common in individuals with underlying cardiac disease. (JAMA1987;257:1615-1617)