Demographic and health characteristics of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine users (MDMA, ecstasy).

MDMA is commonly used worldwide, but little is known about recreational users' demographics and health. A survey of 304 Polish adults who use MDMA found the drug is widespread among young adults across genders and places of residence. Users take MDMA in pill or crystal form, rarely test drugs from dealers, and most feel MDMA has positively affected their lives. MDMA is seldom used alone; users rate their health higher than those using other psychoactive substances.

Study at a glance

Abstract

MDMA is one of the most commonly used drugs in the world. Clinical studies are currently being conducted around the world on the use of this substance in the treatment of PTSD and alcoholism. However, little demographic information is available on users who use the substance for recreational purposes. The aim was to determine basic demographic and helath characteristics with validated tools. The authors prepared an original questionnaire on the demography of MDMA users and combined it with the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The survey was sent to Polish MDMA users via the Internet. 304 responses were received from people over 18 years of age. MDMA is widespread among young adults, in many different places of residence and regardless of gender. The users take MDMA in both pill and crystal form and very rarely test drugs bought from a dealer. Most users feel that MDMA has had a good impact on their lives. MDMA is rarely used as the only psychoactive substance. MDMA users rate their health higher than people using other psychoactive substances.