The Risks of Using Ecstasy

My friend offered me ecstasy, what are the risks of taking this drug?

The Law
Firstly, Ecstasy is an ‘A’ class drug which means it is illegal to possess, sell or give away. If convicted for possession of ecstasy the maximum penalty is 7 years imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both, on the other hand if convicted for supplying the maximum penalty can be life imprisonment or an unlimited fine or both.

Description
Ecstasy is a hallucinogenic drug that is usually sold in tablet form, it acts as a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and increases brain activity. Users claim to have a mild euphoric ’rush’ feeling followed by a feeling of calm. It is reported that the user experiences heightened awareness of the surroundings and sound, hence it being known as the ‘Clubbers drug’.

Effects
Short term effects are experienced after 20 – 60 minutes and can last for 3-6 hours. Pupils dilate, jaw tightens, nausea, sweating, dehydration and a rise in blood pressure.
Long term effects – no one knows of these effects yet but what is known is that large doses of the drug can cause anxiety, panic and confusion, and may lead to liver and kidney problems. After using the drug people feel tired and depressed and due to the fact there is no quality control people have no way of knowing what actually is in the tablet.

Further information on drugs can be found by calling the National Drugs Helpline on 0800 776600, or visiting:-

www.talktofrank.com  
www.drugscope.org.uk