The dark side of ecstasy: neuropsychiatric symptoms after exposure to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine.
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) is a known neurotoxin in animals. This review discusses the history, pattern of use, pharmacology, acute and long-term effects of MDMA. Emphasis is given to the concern that MDMA may induce long-term cognitive and psychiatric effects. MDMA is an illegal substance, and investigations of the effects of exposure in human beings have limitations and weaknesses. There are numerous studies suggesting a correlation between MDMA exposure and psychopathology, and that the psychotropic effects may be long-lasting or permanent. However, it is not possible to conclude that there is a causal relationship between exposure and the increased psychopathology observed in MDMA users. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess whether MDMA causes persistent cognitive impairment and/or psychiatric symptoms in human beings.
Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
Sunniva Nyberg
SN
Karlsen
Olav
O
Spigset
Lars
L
Slørdal
D000818:Animals; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006207:Half-Life; D006213:Hallucinogens / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders; D013997:Time Factors
D006213:Hallucinogens; D013287:Illicit Drugs; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine