Self-reported prevalence of dependence of MDMA compared to cocaine, mephedrone and ketamine among a sample of recreational poly-drug users
International Journal of Drug Policy July 15, 2014 Hanna Uosukainen, Ulrich Tacke, Adam R. Winstock 55 citations
Among a large global sample of non-treatment-seeking users, MDMA users were more likely to report three or more DSM-IV dependence symptoms compared to users of cocaine, mephedrone, and ketamine. However, MDMA users were less likely to report a desire to use less or seek help. MDMA received the highest rating for pleasurable high and the lowest rating for risk of harm. The findings suggest that the pleasurable effects of MDMA may compensate for drug-related problems, and standard DSM-IV criteria may not be suitable for assessing MDMA dependence.