Ecstasy

Question 1

Intended Use of Ecstasy

Answer 1

anorectic pill
can be taken in pill or powder form
manufactured by Merk company

Question 2

MDMA

Answer 2

Ecstasy - methylene dioxy methamphetamine

Question 3

Pharmacology of Ecstasy

Answer 3

1) Binds presynaptic terminal and exchanger
2) Enhances 5-HT release from synaptic terminal
3) Agonist at post-synaptic 5-HT2 receptors (mild affinity)
4) Inhibits MAO (monoamine oxidase)
- breaks down serotonin
5) Inhibits tryptophan hydroxylase - involved in synthesis of NT serotonin

Question 4

Half life

Answer 4

6-10 hours

Question 5

Acute Effects of Ecstasy - Stimulant

Answer 5

Energizing
Increased HR and BP
Increased temperature
Increased motor activity and bruxism

Question 6

Acute Effects of Ecstasy - Behavioral/Psychological

Answer 6

Euphoria
Changes in perception (light and sound)
Reduced inhibitions and anxiety
Emotional openness and empathy (enactogen)

Question 7

Acute Effects of Ecstasy - Other

Answer 7

Induces secretion of Anti-Diuretic Hormone (ADH) - retains water
Induces production of oxytocin

Question 8

Acute Effects of Ecstasy - Withdrawal

Answer 8

No significant set of symptoms like with opiates
Mood worsens - midweeks blue (peaks at 4 days)
Subsides within 1-3 weeks

Question 9

Neuronal Changes with Ecstasy - Long Lasting Effects

Answer 9

Depletion of 5-HT and metabolites (5-HIAA)
Decrease in SERTs and 5-HT2 receptors
Loss of fine axons from Raphe Nuclei (striatum, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex)

Question 10

Neuronal Changes with Ecstasy - in DA vs 5-HT Systems

Answer 10

Causes DA release from terminals
Neuronal changes are species specific
- rats and primates - 5-HT fiber loss
- mice - DA fiber loss