Ecstasy

The synthetic chemical 3,4-methylenedioxy-n-methylamphetamine (also known as XTC, E, beans and rolls) is seen as the original 'designer drug' due to its close link to dance music culture in the late 80s. Clubbers took this energy-boosting drug to dance for hours thanks to its short 'kick in' time and long lasting effects of up to 3 to 6 hours.

Effects

• Energy buzz
• Feeling very alert and alive
• Heightened senses
• Increased sociability
• Increased talkativeness

Risks

• Death by overdose - heart stroke
• Water poisoning - drinking too much water to provoke hyponaetraemia
• Toxic reactions
• Depression