Life-Threatening 3,4‐Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDMA) Usage
Handbook of Substance Misuse and Addictions January 1, 2022 Francis Kin Chiu Chu
MDMA (ecstasy, Molly) is a synthetic stimulant and hallucinogen commonly used at electronic dance music parties, especially by young people in Hong Kong and globally. While recreational use is widespread, serious illness and death can occur, linked to serotonin toxicity. Cyproheptadine, an antihistamine with serotonin-blocking properties, is reported as an effective treatment for moderate serotonin syndrome. This chapter reviews the life-threatening risks of MDMA use, the serotonin syndrome associated with it at EDM events, diagnosis and management, and the benefits of cyproheptadine as an antidote.