Life-Threatening 3,4‐Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDMA) Usage
Handbook of Substance Misuse and Addictions 2022 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-67928-6_118-1 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA |
| Keywords | 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine Serotonin syndrome Cyproheptadine |
| Key findings | Cyproheptadine is reported to be an effective agent for managing moderate serotonin syndrome associated with MDMA abuse. |
Abstract
MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), popularly known as “ecstasy,” “E,” “Adam,” “XTC,” “M&M,” or “Molly,” is a synthetic compound of phenethylamine with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. It is a common recreational street drug affecting young people particularly at urban dance parties in Hong Kong. MDMA abuse is widely reported in electronic dance music (EDM) festivals all over the world. Although uncommon, mortality and serious morbidity occur with recreational use, which is believed to be related to serotonin toxicity. Cyproheptadine has antihistamine and 5-HT antagonist property, which is reported to be an effective agent in managing serotonin syndrome of moderate severity. This chapter reviewed the life-threatening usage of MDMA, serotonin syndrome associated with MDMA abuse in EDM, diagnosis and management and the benefits of cyproheptadine as an antidote.