What are the immediate effects of taking ecstasy?
Ecstasy stimulates the release of several chemicals in the brain, but most of its psychological effects are related to the release of massive amounts of the chemical serotonin by certain nerve cells. About 30 minutes after taking Ecstasy, the user feels the “coming on” effects – the heart starts racing, the blood pressure goes up, the body temperature goes up or down (depending on the temperature of the room), the pupils dilate, the jaw tightens and there is an urge to grind the teeth (this is why ravers suck on Chuppa Chupps, or chew gum). Many users often feel nauseous, or even vomit up the tablet. Then, for the next four to six hours, the psychological effects are felt: there is a feeling of increased energy and the sensations are heightened (it is quite rare to have frank hallucinations). However, the most sought after aspects of Ecstasy use are the emotional effects: people on Ecstasy feel a great warmth and empathy for those around them, and for themselves. What are the medium te
