Hair MDMA samples are consistent with reported ecstasy use: findings from a study investigating effects of ecstasy on mood and memory.
OBJECTIVE
Our group has conducted several Internet investigations into the biobehavioural effects of self-reported recreational use of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine or Ecstasy) and other psychosocial drugs. Here we report a new study examining the relationship between self-reported Ecstasy use and traces of MDMA found in hair samples.


METHODS
In a laboratory setting, 49 undergraduate volunteers performed an Internet-based assessment which included mood scales and the University of East London Drug Use Questionnaire, which asks for history and current drug use. They also provided a hair sample for determination of exposure to MDMA over the previous month.


RESULTS
Self-report of Ecstasy use and presence in hair samples were consistent (p < 0.00001). Both subjective and objective measures predicted lower self-reported ratings of happiness and higher self-reported stress. Self-reported Ecstasy use, but not presence in hair, was also associated with decreased tension.


CONCLUSIONS
Different psychoactive drugs can influence long-term mood and cognition in complex and dynamically interactive ways. Here we have shown a good correspondence between self-report and objective assessment of exposure to MDMA. These data suggest that the Internet has potentially high utility as a useful medium to complement traditional laboratory studies into the sequelae of recreational drug use.
Brain Sciences Institute, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. andrew@scholeylab.com
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Scholey
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Owen
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Gates
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J
Rodgers
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Buchanan
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J
Ling
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Heffernan
P
P
Swan
C
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Stough
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Parrott
D015104:3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000032:analysis / Q000494:pharmacology; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect / Q000187:drug effects*; D005260:Female; D006197:Hair / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D013287:Illicit Drugs / Q000032:analysis / Q000494:pharmacology; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008385:Marijuana Smoking / Q000523:psychology; D008568:Memory / Q000187:drug effects*; D012651:Self Medication; D057566:Self Report; D015813:Substance Abuse Detection; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D013287:Illicit Drugs; D015104:3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine; C051800:3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine