Ecstasy/MDMA
Drug: Ecstasy (MDMA)
Street names: Pills, Es, XTC, Doves, Adam, Burgers,
Disco Biscuits, MDMA Crystals, M & Ms
Similar drugs: Cocaine, Amphetamine,
Mephedrone.
Drug type: Stimulant/Hallucinogen.
Legal status: Ecstasy is a class A drug. You could
go to prison for seven years for possessing it and get life for
dealing it, plus receive a hefty fine.
What is it? Ecstasy is a man-made drug that you
usually take as a tablet. Tablets vary greatly in their size,
colour and logo markings.
Ecstasy is related to amphetamine, and has similar effects.
How it can make you feel: You'll feel a high at
first, then a period of feeling more energetic while at the same
time feeling calmer. You might feel more empathetic towards people,
feel like you can talk to them more easily and appreciate your
surroundings more.
Ecstasy will increase your heart rate, blood pressure and body
temperature. It will also make your pupils dilate and your jaw
tighten. It will dry your mouth and throat. You could feel sick and
lose your appetite.
When you 'come down', you can feel tired and emotionally
drained, needing sleep to recover.
The risks: Some people have bad experiences on
ecstasy, feeling panicked, anxious and confused. The drug can also
cause overheating and dehydration, especially if it's used with
alcohol. You could have an accident if you're disorientated.
Many drugs that are sold as ecstasy may be a totally different
drug, such as ketamine, which pose even more risks.
Ecstasy is a relatively new drug, so its long-term risks aren't
clear yet. Some recent concerns however include brain damage, liver
and kidney problems. The drug can also disturb your sleep patterns
and weaken your immune system.
Ecstasy image courtesy of Talk to Frank, Crown Copyright.
Crack Cocaine
Heroin