Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "Ecstasy").
Ecstasy (MDMA) is an amphetamine derivative of growing popularity. The drug produces a range of toxicities when taken either in standard doses or overdose. In overdose it has major toxicity, producing several different life-threatening manifestations. Hepatotoxicity and hyponatremia are common but poorly understood consequences of MDMA overdose. The drug can produce long-term, if not permanent, neurologic sequelae by destruction of serotonergic neurons. Chronic Ecstasy use can result in psychosis, depression, and suicidal ideation. In the ED setting, it is essential for physicians to recognize and treat appropriately those who present with intoxication from this drug.
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The Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and the Massachusetts/Rhode Island Poison Control Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
D000328:Adult; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004211:Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation / Q000139:chemically induced; D004638:Emergency Treatment / Q000379:methods*; D006213:Hallucinogens / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000506:poisoning*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000506:poisoning*; D009846:Oliguria / Q000139:chemically induced; D006435:Renal Dialysis; D012640:Seizures / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000628:therapy*
D006213:Hallucinogens; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine