Designer Drug Confusion: A Focus on MDMA
Journal of Drug Education September 1, 1986 DOI: 10.2190/tw2b-2p4a-kgum-6102 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA |
| Keywords | Stimulant Recreational drug Recreational use Designer drug Confusion Hallucinogen Substance abuse |
| Citations | 57 |
| Key findings | Interest in MDMA will continue to grow despite its illegality and evidence of neurotoxicity, and more research is needed on its benefits and risks. |
Abstract
This article discusses the competing definitions and issues surrounding the various desgner drugs, but is primarily devoted t o an examination of MDMA, an increasingly popular substance often labeled as a designer drug. Also known as “Ecstasy” or “Adam,” MDMA possesses both stimulant and psychedelic properties which combine to produce a unique effect desired by many users. The authors offer a rationale for why interest in MDMA will continue to grow despite the drug's recent illegality and the increasing evidence of neurotoxicity. MDMA's recreational attraction and therapeutic potential are discussed. Much more research is necessary to address both the potential benefits and risks of this controversial substance.