Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “Ecstasy”)
Pediatric Emergency Care October 1, 2000 Michael Shannon 51 citations
MDMA, an increasingly popular amphetamine derivative, causes a range of toxic effects at both standard and overdose levels. Overdose can lead to life-threatening conditions, including hepatotoxicity and hyponatremia, which are common but not well understood. The drug may cause long-term or permanent neurological damage by destroying serotonergic neurons. Chronic use is associated with psychosis, depression, and suicidal ideation. In emergency departments, physicians must recognize and properly treat MDMA intoxication.