Party Drug/MDMA/Ecstasy

How does Ecstasy affect the brain?

Ecstasy increases the activity of three brain chemicals:

• Dopamine—produces increased energy/activity and acts in the reward system to reinforce behaviors
• Norepinephrine—increases heart rate and blood pressure, which are particularly risky for people with heart and blood vessel problems
• Serotonin—affects mood, appetite, sleep, and other functions. It also triggers hormones that affect sexual arousal and trust. The release of large amounts of serotonin likely causes the emotional closeness, elevated mood, and empathy felt by those who use Ecstasy.