A thematic analysis of MDMA-related harm and harm reduction experiences and knowledge in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Jai Whelan, Ryan D Ward, Geoff Noller
Harm Reduction Journal May 23, 2024 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01024-8 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 60 |
| Population | People who use MDMA in the Southern region of Aotearoa New Zealand |
| Topics | MDMA |
| Keywords | Aotearoa new zealand Harm reduction Reflexive thematic analysis Drug safety MDMA Use Peer support Substance testing |
| Citations | 2 |
| Key findings | Five themes were generated from focus group discussions: mindset and setting matters; looking after your body and mind, not overdoing it; other substances increase risk and harm; trusted friends and peers are protective; and valid information is key for healthy self-determination, with drug checking as essential harm reduction. |
Abstract
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a popular drug worldwide and use is prevalent in Aotearoa New Zealand. Although associated with some significant harms, including fatalities, MDMA is ultimately less harmful than other commonly consumed drugs. We aimed to expand the understanding of MDMA harm and harm reduction strategies from a consumer perspective so that national harm reduction efforts can be better informed. We conducted 14 semi-structured focus group discussions including 60 people (aged 18-67, median = 21) who use MDMA in the Southern region of Aotearoa New Zealand to explore their thoughts and experiences regarding MDMA associated harm and harm reduction. Reflexive thematic analysis was conducted from a critical realist perspective. Five themes were generated; (1) Mindset and setting matters; (2) Looking after your body and mind, not overdoing it; (3) Other substances increase risk and harm; (4) Trusted friends and peers are protective; and (5) Valid information is key for healthy self-determination; and one subtheme 5.1) Drug checking is essential harm reduction. We discuss the implications for MDMA consumers and aim to inform national drug policy and the harm reduction practices of consumers and organisations, for the ultimate purpose of reducing MDMA-related harm in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Comparable studies
Other qualitative studies on MDMA, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phenomenology and Sequelae of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Use Psychiatrists who had taken MDMA | 1992 | Qualitative study | n = 20 |
| MDMA and Sexual Behavior: Ecstasy Users' Perceptions About Sexuality and Sexual Risk Current and former users of MDMA | 2005 | Qualitative study | n = 98 |
| Perceived Benefits of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy beyond Symptom Reduction: Qualitative Follow-Up Study of a Clinical Trial for Individuals with Treatment-Resistant PTSD Veterans, firefighters, and police officers with chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD | 2019 | Qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis | n = 19 |
| Negative Experiences on Ecstasy: The Role of Drug, Set, and Setting Current or former users of Ecstasy | 2002 | Qualitative study | n = 98 |
| A Qualitative Exploration of Relational Ethical Challenges and Practices in Psychedelic Healing Practitioners who have administered MDMA and psilocybin to clients in underground... | 2021 | Qualitative study | n = 23 |
Citations in the library
Cites 28
- MDMA-assisted therapy for severe PTSD: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study. Nature Medicine June 1, 2021
- Human Pharmacology of MDMA Therapeutic Drug Monitoring March 19, 2004
- Recreational MDMA use in Sydney: a profile of ‘Ecstasy’ users and their experiences with the drug British Journal of Addiction August 1, 1992
- MDMA-assisted therapy for moderate to severe PTSD: a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial. Nature Medicine October 1, 2023
- Human psychobiology of MDMA or ‘Ecstasy’: an overview of 25 years of empirical research Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental July 1, 2013
and 23 more in the library