What is Ecstasy?

MDMA or ecstasy is a Schedule I synthetic, psychoactive drug possessing stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. MDMA possesses chemical variations of the stimulant amphetamine or methamphetamine and a hallucinogen, most often mescaline.

Commonly referred to as Ecstasy or XTC, MDMA was first synthesized in 1912 by a German company possibly to be used as an appetite suppressant. Chemically, it is an analogue of MDA, a drug that was popular in the 1960s. In the late 1970s, MDMA was used to facilitate psychotherapy by a small group of therapists in the United States. Illicit use of the drug did not become popular until the late 1980s and early 1990s. MDMA is frequently used in combination with other drugs. However, it is rarely consumed with alcohol, as alcohol is believed to diminish its effects. It is most often distributed at late-night parties called "raves," nightclubs, and rock concerts. As the rave and club scene expands to metropolitan and suburban areas across the country, MDMA use and distribution are increasing as well.

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More About Ecstacy:

• What is Ecstasy?
• How is Ecstasy used?
• What are the short-term effects of Ecstasy abuse?
• What are the long-term effects of Ecstasy abuse?
• Where does Ecstasy come from?
• Ecstasy Addiction Index

Drug Information:

• Ecstasy Information
• Cocaine/Crack Information
• Methamphetamine/Speed Information
• Heroin Information
• Marijuana Information
• Oxycontin Information
• Alcohol Information
• LSD Information
• PCP Information
• Ketamine Information
• Prescription Drug Information
• DXM Information
• GHB Information
• Drug Information Index

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