Abstract:Three cases of delirium experienced by three young friends after recreational use of "ecstasy" are reported--a syndrome which, to the best of the authors' knowledge, has not been previously observed in MDMA abusers. Special attention is given to the etiological factors and clinical features of the adverse reaction.
“…Delirium, agitation and seizures should be controlled with increments of diazepam in the first instance, in preference to chlorpromazine [109,127]. In cocaine users it has been found that diazepam is less…”
Section: Treatment Of Adverse Effectsmentioning
confidence: 99%
“…The use of neuroleptics requires care because of the theoretical risk of producing the neuroleptic malignant syndrome and the possibility of precipitating seizures [68]. Delirium, agitation and seizures should be controlled with increments of diazepam in the first instance, in preference to chlorpromazine [109,127]. In cocaine users it has been found that diazepam is less…”
Ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, MDMA) is the third most used illicit drug, after cannabis and amphetamines. There has been considerable interest in the adverse effects of use, with particular attention given to a small number of deaths related to ecstasy use, and the neurotoxic effects of MDMA. This paper reviews case reports of adverse effects attributed to ecstasy use, and the findings of animal and human studies, so as to identify the health effects of ecstasy use, and factors contributing to their occurrence. The incidence of serious acute adverse events related to ecstasy is low. It is the unpredictability of those adverse events and the risk of mortality and substantial morbidity that makes the health consequences of ecstasy significant. Hyperthermia and hyponatraemia are the most significant acute adverse effects, and can occur even when MDMA is the only drug used. Ecstasy users should be aware of the importance of controlling body temperature and fluid intake, early signs of adverse effects, and the need to seek medical assistance promptly. Neurotoxicity is potentially the most significant long-term effect of ecstasy. The clinical implications of neurotoxicity are uncertain at this time, but short-term memory impairment may be significant.
“…Delirium, agitation and seizures should be controlled with increments of diazepam in the first instance, in preference to chlorpromazine [109,127]. In cocaine users it has been found that diazepam is less…”
Section: Treatment Of Adverse Effectsmentioning
confidence: 99%
“…The use of neuroleptics requires care because of the theoretical risk of producing the neuroleptic malignant syndrome and the possibility of precipitating seizures [68]. Delirium, agitation and seizures should be controlled with increments of diazepam in the first instance, in preference to chlorpromazine [109,127]. In cocaine users it has been found that diazepam is less…”
Ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, MDMA) is the third most used illicit drug, after cannabis and amphetamines. There has been considerable interest in the adverse effects of use, with particular attention given to a small number of deaths related to ecstasy use, and the neurotoxic effects of MDMA. This paper reviews case reports of adverse effects attributed to ecstasy use, and the findings of animal and human studies, so as to identify the health effects of ecstasy use, and factors contributing to their occurrence. The incidence of serious acute adverse events related to ecstasy is low. It is the unpredictability of those adverse events and the risk of mortality and substantial morbidity that makes the health consequences of ecstasy significant. Hyperthermia and hyponatraemia are the most significant acute adverse effects, and can occur even when MDMA is the only drug used. Ecstasy users should be aware of the importance of controlling body temperature and fluid intake, early signs of adverse effects, and the need to seek medical assistance promptly. Neurotoxicity is potentially the most significant long-term effect of ecstasy. The clinical implications of neurotoxicity are uncertain at this time, but short-term memory impairment may be significant.
“…One month later, he developed a vegetative state and his MRI revealed diffuse bilateral extensive hypodense lesions of the white matter [13]. In 1999, an Italian research group reported delirium in three young adults after recreational ecstasy ingestion, but this study did not report brain image findings because the cases resolved rapidly [14] (Table 1). In 2012, Sacks and colleagues reported a case of 26-year-old male patient who presented with unconsciousness after an overdose with "Europa = 2C-E," an MDMA-related drug.…”
In recent years, ecstasy has become a very popular recreational drug. To date, very little data is available regarding its toxic side effects. Specifically, reports relating ecstasy use to the clinical diagnosis of leukoencephalopathy are quite rare. In this report, we present an interesting case of a 33-year-old female with a recent history of ecstasy abuse who presented with delirium and cognitive impairment. In addition, we review published case reports that explore the connection between MDMA and leukoencephalopathy.ARTICLE HISTORY
“…A high dose or an overdose of Ecstasy poses the risks of acute delirium, acute anxiety reactions, malignant hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone, bilateral sixth nerve palsy, cardiovascular abnormalities, seizure, cerebral edema, coma, and death. 13,15,[17][18][19][20] Of all the acute complications, hyperthermia is particularly important since it could lead to seizure and coma. Factors that induce hyperthermia include dehydration, alcohol consumption, physical exertion, and heat, all of which are present at rave clubs.…”
Ecstasy is a recreational drug that is increasing in popularity, particularly in young adolescents. Its appeal involves its euphoric effects and a feeling of empathy for others (hence the nickname "hug drug"). This appeal may be furthered by a misleading and anecdotal perception of safety. Cases of adverse effects, toxic reactions, and fatalities are increasingly being reported in the medical literature, as well as in the popular press. Adverse effects include hyperthermia, seizures, cardiac abnormalities, and hyponatremia. Long-term Ecstasy use may result in serotonin terminal degeneration and depletion, which may result in psychiatric and cognitive sequelae. Controversy surrounds the legalization of Ecstasy for medicinal purposes.
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