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Ecstasy Fact Sheet
Health Risks
Buyers are uncertain of the chemical content of the pill he/she has purchased
Raises the body temperature
Causes injury to the neurons that use the chemical Serotonin to communicate. Serotonin plays a direct role in regulating mood aggression, sexual activity, sleep and sensitivity to pain
Can lead to dehydration and hypothermia.
Can cause psychological difficulty including confusion, depression, sleep problems, drug craving, severe anxiety and paranoia during and sometimes weeks after taking MDMA.
Can develop rashes that look like acne and risk severe side effects including liver damage
Related in its structure and effects to methamphetamine, which has been shown to cause degeneration of neurons containing the transmitter dopamine. Damage to these neurons is the underlying cause of motor disturbances seen in Parkinson's disease
Raises blood pressure and heart rate.
Frequent use causes neuro-toxic brain damage in laboratory animals
Flashbacks (an uncontrolled chemical and psychological high long after use) may occur
Causes memory problems due to the loss of serotonin
Can decrease the performance in memory test compared to non-users
Miscellaneous
Use is concentrated among older teens and young adults. In the year 2000, 11% of high school seniors said they used "E", 8.2% during the 2000.
Belongs to a family of drug known as entatogenes. The word literally means touching within
Legalities
Ecstasy is a Schedule 1 substance classified so by the federal government. It is illegal to possess, manufacture or distribute. The legal penalty could result in a minimum sentence of seven years in a federal prison
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