3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): a review.
This article reviews the history, pharmacology, and adverse events associated with the use of 3,4-methylenendioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as Ecstasy. Past research describing the neurotoxic effects of MDMA in animals, current research on the neurotoxic effects of MDMA in humans, and the attendant changes in psychologic functioning will be highlighted in this review. Finally, the limitations of human research on the effects of MDMA and suggestions for future MDMA research will be discussed.
O'Leary
G
G
Harvard Medical School, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Program, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA. olearyg4@aol.com
Nargiso
J
J
Weiss
R D
RD
D001921:Brain / Q000187:drug effects; D003863:Depression / Q000139:chemically induced; D006213:Hallucinogens / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008305:Malignant Hyperthermia / Q000209:etiology; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011985:Receptors, Serotonin / Q000187:drug effects*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications*
D006213:Hallucinogens; D011985:Receptors, Serotonin; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine