Abuse of ecstasy in South Bohemia region and possibilities of prevention

Ecstasy, MDMA (3,4-methylendioxymetamfetamin) is a synthetic, psychoactive substance, chemically similar to stimulant methamphetamine and hallucinogenic mescaline. MDMA is active primarily on neurons in the brain. For the communication with other neurons, neurons are using serotonin. Serotonin system plays a significant role in regulation of mood, aggressiveness, sleep and pain sensitivity. In high dosage MDMA disturbs the ability of the body to regulate body temperature. This may lead to fast increase in body temperature (hyperthermia). Ecstasy is generally considered to be a rather safe drug, although a number of physical as well as psychiatrical consecutive health problems have occurred. Specific mechanisms of MDMA toxicity have still not been fully clarified; however, it is obvious that these cannot be attributed only to MDMA over dosage or the use of impure tablets (i.e. e. toxicity cannot be ascribed plainly to admixture in tablets)