Dangers of ecstasy

Q: I am a fan of “rave” and... ecstasy. Do you think that ecstasy is more harmful for people with cystic fibrosis than for the general population? Aren't we overestimating the dangers of this drug?

A: Before answering your question, let's first explain what this drug is. Ecstasy is the common name for AD (3,4-methylene-dioxy-methamphetamine). It is a derivative of amphetamine that was synthesized in 1914 and was then used as a medicine to reduce appetite. Ecstasy was then used in the 1970s and 1980s in psychotherapy; indeed, some therapists used it then because it reduced patients' inhibitions and made them talk more openly about their problems. Ecstasy boomed again in the 1980s, when it was adopted as a recreational drug during “raves” in English-speaking countries. It was then taken off the market.

Today, ecstasy is available on the black market in the form of tablets or capsules. The action of ecstasy on the brain is between that of amphetamine (stimulant) and that of mescaline (hallucinogen). Ecstasy users also engage in sensual behavior since the substance gives them the impression of proximity to others. At low doses, the side effects are fairly mild: decreased appetite, dry mouth, palpitations, jaw tension, insomnia, hot flashes and sweating. At the end of consumption, one may have withdrawal symptoms marked by a certain fatigue and a variable depressive state. At higher doses, however, the consequences may be greater. In fact, one can observe significant fever, high blood pressure or, conversely, a drop in blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, cerebral or digestive hemorrhages, convulsions, acute liver or kidney failure, acute liver or kidney failure, which are potentially fatal complications. Psychiatrically, ecstasy can cause anxiety accompanied by panic, psychosis, or severe depression. All of these complications can occur in a healthy person. Finally, a fibrocystic person with significant pulmonary and digestive disorders seems to me to be more at risk of developing serious complications.

Seven health risks*

1. Ecstasy causes dehydration in the body, often amplified by an atmosphere
overheated and by intense physical exertion.

2. When ecstasy is combined with other drugs (cocaine, LSD, LSD, speed, ketamine, GHB) and alcohol, the toxicity of ingested substances increases.

3. People who are already taking medication are at risk of dangerous drug interactions, including with aspirin, some antidepressants, and medications used to treat HIV.

4. People who suffer from asthma, circulatory and cardiac disorders, epilepsy,
kidney problems, liver diseases, diabetes, diabetes, chronic fatigue or psychological problems are particularly vulnerable and should refrain from consuming at all times
ecstasy.

5. Regular users face the same risks as users of cocaine or amphetamines: confusion, aggression, mood instability, insomnia, severe anxiety, paranoia, paranoia, weight loss and weakness.

6. For some, consumption can cause or reveal lasting psychological disorders.

7. There is no physical dependence on ecstasy, although some chronic users may develop psychological dependence.

Dr Michel Ruel

Joanie Bernier Inf., B.SC

Cystic Fibrosis Clinic at the McGill University Health Center (MUHC)

Montreal (Quebec) Canada

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