Effective ecstacy
Question
I have been using ecstasy for about seven years. At first I only used it once every few months but then I started taking it every weekend. I've stopped taking it as much this year, but every time I even have a little bit I get severe head spins and nausea.
This never used to happen to me and I'm afraid there might be some permanent damage done. Is there is anything I should be worried about?
Answer
You haven't mentioned how much ecstasy you were taking but there are several factors that can influence the effects ecstasy can have on you and your body.
It's not unusual for people to increase the amount of ecstasy they are using when they take it more often. This is because a physical tolerance to the drug is developed, and people take more to try to get the same effects. So, the first thing you need to consider is whether you increased the amount of ecstasy you were taking each time. And, if this is the case, are you taking the same amount now?
In addition, it's important to know that the ecstasy you've been taking could well be mixed with other substances, like amphetamine or caffeine. These other substances could be behind the head spins and nausea.
The short-term effects of ecstasy can also include anxiety, panic attacks, confused episodes, first-time epileptic episodes and paranoia, so it's not easy to pin down the exact cause of the effects you've mentioned. There has been a lot of research into the long-term effects of ecstasy. Evidence suggests long-term use can cause emotional damage such as depression, personality change and memory loss. Physically, you run the risk of heart, liver and kidney problems.
Of course, the best way to avoid the side effects and worries about permanent damage is to stop using ecstasy all together. It sounds like you have successfully cut down the frequency of your use, and a good move to ensure your health and wellbeing would be to stop altogether.
If you would like to consider this, there are drug support services in your local area that could help you sort it out. Or you could have a confidential chat to someone at Frank on 0800 77 66 00. And, if you worried about any aspect of your health, remember you can visit your local doctor (GP) for a check-up in complete confidence.
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Question answered by Addaction
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