Psychoactive Synthetic Adulterants in Tablets Sold as MDMA after the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Central Effects.
Current neuropharmacology January 9, 2026 Maria Antonietta De Luca, Cristina Miliano, Amanda Roxburgh et al. 1 citation
Tablets sold as MDMA frequently contain psychoactive adulterants that vary by region and year, potentially increasing central nervous system harm. A review of studies from 2020 to 2025 covering Continental Europe, the UK, the USA, and Australia found that co-administration of MDMA with common adulterants can exacerbate noxious neurological and psychiatric effects. The composition of tablets differs across these regions, and interactions between MDMA and adulterants may explain some adverse effects seen in users. Expanding drug checking and public health efforts is essential to inform users, first responders, and healthcare professionals about these risks.