Why do people use it? Ecstasy is most commonly used at clubs, parties and raves. Users feel wide awake, alert and in tune with the music and their surroundings. It gives a feeling of enhanced empathy towards others. Senses, emotions and colours seem more intense. Effects usually last anything from 4-6 hours.

What happens when the effects wear off?

MDMA causes a massive release of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is thought to play an important role in regulating your mood, hunger, sleep, aggression and sexual activity. Whilst the initial rush of serotonin leads to the good feelings it leaves the brain depleted of serotonin which leads to a miserable hangover the next day. Users can feel down for a few days afterwards. It is important to remember that drugs like Ecstasy and amphetamine-like drugs do not give you energy for free. It takes it from the body's existing store and that has to be paid back. Rest, nutritious food, fluid intake and more rest will be needed to refuel. If the feelings of depression are not lifting - see your GP as soon as possible.

Is it addictive?

Physically - no. Psychologically - highly possible, and we have come across those who are. For some people going out is not the same without having pills / E. To them it's part of the evening. Gradually it can creep up and suddenly they can't possibly have a good time without it. For others, the feelings of depression, tiredness and irritability felt for the next few days after use may be too much and the further use of ecstasy to bring them 'up' again can lead to a cycle that they find is difficult to get off.

How dangerous is it really?

Firstly a tablet looks like most others and you will never know what you’re buying is actually MDMA (Ecstasy), it could contain stronger or small amounts of MDMA or relative chemicals such as MDEA, MDA. It could contain other drugs plus varying amounts of MDMA, or no MDMA at all. It could contain drugs such as amphetamine or ketamine, which can lead to a very unpleasant experience. Or you could be buying someone's prescription or over the counter medication.

According to an EMCDDA-Europol 2009 Report 'Data from different sources highlight a marked increase of 'Ecstasy' tablets containing mCPP while the availability of MDMA on the market seems to be decreasing.' Which follows the adage that you have no way of telling what is in the tablet or powder you have bought. Some may contain other stimulant drugs with an effect the user may not be expecting.

Ecstasy related deaths.

There have been around 200+ to date since 1989. Whilst some people may have had an allergic reaction, causes of death tend to be attributed to three categories.

1. Heatstroke / Dehydration

As we know, taking Ecstasy increases your temperature and you have lots of energy. Combine this with lots of dancing in a hot, sweaty and sometimes overcrowded venue and it can lead to dehydration through sweating.

Death can be caused by respiratory collapse resulting from what is called     'Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation' (DIC). Ecstasy reacts with the chemicals that control the bodies blood-clotting system meaning that blood coagulates where it shouldn't, for instance in the lungs. Due to this, air cannot get through and the person dies. Also, if the store of blood clotting agent has been used up in inappropriate sites, then blood no longer clots where it should. There is then a risk of haemorrhaging from all the internal lesions that the human body would normally cope with.

Dehydration can be avoided by taking regular breaks from dancing, chill out, sip 1 pint of water or an isotonic drink over an hour. See what to do in case of dehydration/heatstroke below.

2. DRINKING TOO MUCH FLUID

Most people know to drink small amounts regularly to keep their bodies hydrated. Unfortunately, there is a mistaken belief by some that drinking loads will either flush E out of the system quicker or it will offset some unpleasant side effects of the drug. Drinking too much can lead to what is called 'dilutional hyponaetremia'. It doesn't necessarily mean that users drank too much, but their bodies may not have been able to get rid of it effectively.

Ecstasy appears to affect the way the kidneys work by inappropriately secreting an anti-diuretic hormone which prevents the excretion of fluids. Water is then retained in the body, and if we think that our brains are mostly made of water, the increased pressure of more fluid leads to the shutting down of important body functions such as breathing and heartbeat.

Symptoms include dizziness, disorientation and coma. If you are in any way worried about your self or your friend, the best advice is ring an ambulance as soon as possible.

3. HEART FAILURE

Ecstasy causes a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. If you already have a heart condition, high blood pressure or past heart problems it's best to stay away from Ecstasy and other stimulant type drugs. A few people have died from a result of undiagnosed heart problems and there is also the issue of the effects on the heart of mixing E with other amphetamine type drugs and stimulants like cocaine. The risk is there.