2014/01/16 by C Michael White · 1 citation
Psychology · Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics · Neuroscience · #Psychedelics and Drug Studies #Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis #Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior
paper · doi:10.1002/jcph.266
openalex publication_date 2014/01/16 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an agent of abuse that has been used by over 16 million Americans. Increased energy, elevated mood, bonding with others, and psychedelic effects are desired effects while liver damage, extended depressed mood, sexual assault, rhabdomyolysis, serotonin syndrome, multiorgan failure, cardiovascular events, arrhythmias, and death are possible adverse effects. These desirable and adverse effects of MDMA are extensions of its fascinating pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic profile. In addition to methamphatemine like effects, MDMA also has mescaline like effects and increases the release of cortisol, oxytocin, and antidiuretic hormone. The desirable effects of MDMA are accentuated by the rave or electronic dance music scene where warm temperatures, vigorous dancing, loud music, and light shows accentuate some of the responses. However, the same environment increases the risk of certain harms. Knowledge of the constellation of these factors is needed for education, prevention of harm, and treatment.