Ecstasy--deadly risk even outside rave parties

Abstract

Fatalities due to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "ecstasy") are rare in Austria, although the use of designer drugs has become quite common. This is the first published case of a fatal MDMA intoxication in Austria. A 19-year-old girl died after the consumption of ecstasy tablets in the apartment of a friend. Blood analysis gave a concentration of MDMA as 3.8 mg/L and traces of its metabolite MDA. Cannabinoids were found as well. This case shows that the consumption of MDMA, without physical stress, can lead to death.