Rhabdomyolysis in MDMA intoxication:A rapid and underestimated killer. "clean" Ecstasy, a safe party drug?

Background: Ecstasy is a popular drug among young adults. It is often thought to be safe. The dose of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in a tablet of Ecstasy varies greatly, and there is also a difference in individual response to a dose of MDMA. Objectives: To increase the awareness of potential mortality in MDMA use. Case Report: We report the case of a patient with a lethal intoxication after pure MDMA intoxication. The serum toxicology screening showed an elevated level of MDMA (1.5 mg/L) but no other amphetamines or other drugs. Conclusions: The cause of death was a rapidly evolving hyperkalemia due to rhabdomyolysis. There is still a need to educate the public about the dangers of this so-called "safe" party drug. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved