Ecstasy: Substance & Effect

Ecstasy is one of the synthetic drugs (also designer drugs). Names such as XTC, E, ADAM, X, Eve or Love drug are also used. Ecstasy is often understood primarily as MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). Ecstasy tablets and capsules are made up of different ingredients and mixing ratios. For example, they contain MDMA in different concentrations. In addition to extenders, other psychoactive substances and other toxic or highly harmful substances can also be added.

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How is ecstasy offered?
How does ecstasy work?

How is ecstasy offered?

In the vast majority of cases, ecstasy is consumed in the form of tablets or capsules. Tablets can be white or colored. Some of them are provided with motifs, e.g. smileys. It is also traded illegally in powdered form called Molly. Ecstasy is taken in connection with music or dance events (e.g. techno scene). The frequency of consumption can vary, from trying things to occasional consumption, for example in connection with concerts and parties, regular consumption (weekend consumption) to more frequent consumption.

Substances like MDMA are subject to the Austrian Narcotics Act (SMG). Further information can be found at www.ris.bka.gv.at.

How does ecstasy work?

The effect of ecstasy (MDMA) is similar to that of hallucinogens and amphetamines and also has its own spectrum of effects. Ecstasy stimulates, among other things, the increased release of serotonin and leads to an inhibited resumption. There is an effect on dopamine, noradrenaline and acetylcholine as well as other receptors.

Consumption leads to a changed perception. Ecstasy can have a hallucinogenic effect and usually acutely leads to an elevated mood - with feelings of happiness, inhibition of fears, high self-acceptance, a feeling of closeness to others and emotional connection, etc. At the same time, it has a stimulating, drive and performance-enhancing effect. Ecstasy can also have negative effects. For more information, see Ecstasy Use: Consequences.

Note Since the ingredients of illegally acquired tablets cannot be assessed, the effect cannot be foreseen. Various diluents, sometimes drugs, can be added. The dosage of MDMA is also different, sometimes dangerously high. This can lead to (life) dangerous effects.

Ecstasy users sometimes only take the drug on the weekends (“weekend drug”) and are socially integrated. However, this is not always the case. If other (illegal) substances are consumed in addition to XTC - such as cannabis, alcohol, stimulants, hallucinogens and / or cocaine - the consequences can be correspondingly serious.