Ecstasy (MDMA) in Recreational Users: Self-Reported Psychological and Physiological Effects
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental May 1, 1997 D. Davison, A. C. Parrott 136 citations
Twenty recreational drug users described the psychological and physiological effects of MDMA. On the drug, they reported increased elation, agreeableness, energy, mental confusion, faster heart rate, feeling hot, sweating, dehydration, dilated pupils, and tight jaw. Coming off the drug led to lethargy, moodiness, insomnia, depression, irritability, and paranoia. 25 percent of the sample reported bad trips. Chronic tolerance was not apparent, but acute tolerance was evident, with a necessary period between doses to maintain effectiveness, which may help explain MDMA's low addiction potential.