Ecstasy Chemically, ecstasy is known as methylene-dioxymethamphetamine or MDMA. It falls between two major categories of drugs, hallucinogens and amphetamines. Ecstasy usually comes in the form of a small tablet. In 1914, MDMA was first used as a prescription drug to reduce appetite. However it wasn't until 1981 when American youths first started using it as a recreational drug. It was completely legal in the US until 1985 when it was added to the banned list. It was about the same time that the drug became illegal that its popularity had increased. Ecstasy had spread with the spread of dance clubs and the dance culture. Since 1981 when the drug was first used until now, 19 years later it is estimated that one and half million "E's" are taken every weekend. The reason that ecstasy and dance clubs go hand in hand is the effect it has on the body. After the initial consumption of the pill it takes about twenty minutes to an hour to feel the effects. Initial effects include dry mouth, dilated pupils, and tingling sensations. Most users feel an initial rush kind of like having "butterflies in your stomach" and tingling which is followed by a feeling of a warm euphoric or excited glow which lasts about four to six hours during this time the user feels calm and happy. Generally most users have a good experience, but there is still a chance of having a "bad trip." Because of the fact that the drug heightens your mood and feelings if you take it when you are worried or distracted by something it could cause a bad experience. Like any other drug ecstasy has many physical side effects in addition to the emotional ones. Side effects include impaired co-ordination, loss of appetite, dehydration, and a rise in the users heart rate. Ecstasy is also said to inhibit or restrain an orgasm and prevent an erection in some men. However, most women feel more in control of their sexuality and find that the drug helps to induce an orgasm more readily.
