Acute, sub-acute and long-term subjective consequences of 'ecstasy' (MDMA) consumption in 430 regular users

Hum Psychopharmacol. 2003 Oct;18(7):507-17. doi: 10.1002/hup.529.

Abstract

This study examined the reported psychological effects of different patterns of MDMA use in men and women, and how they are modified by use of other psychoactive substances. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 466 regular MDMA users, exploring the perceived acute, sub-acute and long-term subjective effects of this drug. Factor analysis established three main categories of acute effects of MDMA: (i) positive and (ii) negative effects on mental health, and (iii) physical effects. In terms of subacute effects, 83% of participants reported experiencing low mood and 80% reported impaired concentration between ecstasy-taking sessions. Factors affecting these effects included age, gender, extent of MDMA use and concomitant use of cocaine or amphetamine. The long-term effects most frequently reported included the development of tolerance to MDMA (59%), impaired ability to concentrate (38%), depression (37%) and 'feeling more open towards people' (31%). In terms of what might persuade users to stop using MDMA, their most prominent concern was the drug's long-term effects on mental health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Amphetamine-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Amphetamine-Related Disorders / psychology*
  • Attention / drug effects
  • Depression / chemically induced
  • England / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Hallucinogens / administration & dosage
  • Hallucinogens / adverse effects*
  • Hallucinogens / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / administration & dosage
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / adverse effects*
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / pharmacology*
  • Sex Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Hallucinogens
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine