Modelling the Adverse Effects Associated With Ecstasy (MDMA) Usage

Abstract

RESULTS Using the total number of adverse effects reported as the dependent variable, significant relationships were found for weeks since last ecstasy use and estimated lifetime ecstasy consumption, these relationships being negative and positive, respectively. Weeks since first ecstasy use and the frequency of its use per week were not related to the total number of adverse effects reported. Additionally, the dependent variable was positively related to the frequency of concurrent alcohol and ecstasy use, daytime sleepiness (i.e. poor sleep quality), anxiety, and level of concern about the adverse effects of ecstasy use. Self ratings of general health were negatively related to the dependent variable. Significant relationships were not found with the number of precautions taken when ecstasy was used, awareness that ecstasy use may have harmful effects, depression, or the concurrent use with ecstasy of amphetamine, cannabis, or cocaine. CONCLUSIONS The results show that the total number of self-reported adverse effects attributed to the use of ecstasy is positively related to lifetime consumption, but inversely related to duration of abstinence from the drug. This latter effect could reflect the return of some neuronal functions to a pre-ecstasy use level [9-10]. Overall duration and frequency of use do not appear to be related to the level of adverse effects reported. The lack of relationship between awareness of ecstasy’s effects and the total of adverse effects reported does not support the assertion that users’ reports of such effects may be magnified in any substantial way by media and other influences [6]. The concurrent use of alcohol, rather than cannabis, with ecstasy may be an important area for future research [4].