Agony and ecstasy: a review of MDMA effects and toxicity

Ecstasy, a recreational drug often thought to be safe, can cause serious acute adverse effects including hyperthermia, seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, liver toxicity, low sodium levels, and various psychiatric disorders. These effects are not due to overdose alone or the typical environment where the drug is used. In animal studies, Ecstasy damages serotonin-producing neurons at doses similar to those taken by humans, though its long-term effects on the human brain remain unknown. Because of the drug's popularity, both immediate and potential lasting harms warrant concern, and Ecstasy toxicity should be considered when diagnosing certain medical and psychiatric conditions.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Summary Background Background – Ecstasy is a recreational drug with an anecdotal reputation for safety. However, reports of adverse effects and fatalities have increased in the medical and popular press. Methods Method – Literature search and review. Results Results – Acute Ecstasy toxicity does not appear to be due to overdose and cannot be solely attributed to the nature of the usual ambient environment. Adverse effects include hyperthermia, seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, hepatotoxicity, hyponatraemia and many psychiatric disorders. Ecstasy causes serotonergic neurotoxicity in the brains of animals at doses close to those used by humans, but its long-term effect on the human brain is unknown. Conclusions Conclusion – Ecstasy toxicity should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a variety of medical and psychiatric conditions. Given its popularity, both the acute and the potential long-term effects are a cause for concern.