Differential experiences of the psychobiological sequelae of ecstasy use:
quantitative and qualitative data from an internet study
Jacqui Rodgers1*,
Tom Buchanan2,
Carol Pearson2,
Andy C Parrott3,
J. Ling4,
T.M. Hefferman5,
A.B. Scholey5
1 School of Neurology, Neurobiology and Psychiatry, University of
Newcastle, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.
2 Department of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, UK.
3 Department of Psychology, University of Wales Swansea, Swansea UK.
4 University of Teesside, Middlesborough, UK.
5 School of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Northumbria University,
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.
* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
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Abstract |
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Previous work provided preliminary evidence that different patterns of use among
ecstasy users may impact on perceived side-effects. Participants recruited via an
ecstasy-related bulletin board differed in their responses compared to those recruited
via other means. The present investigation compares self-reports of psychobiological
difficulties among ecstasy users recruited either via a bulletin board or by alternative
methods. Qualitative data included reports of any negative or positive changes
attributable to ecstasy use and reasons for cessation of use. An Internet-based design
was utilized and 209 volunteers completed the study, 117 of whom were recruited via a
bulletin board devoted to discussion of ecstasy. Psychobiological difficulties
attributable to ecstasy use varied, with mood fluctuation the most common. Differences
between the two groups in the extent to which these problems were reported was found.
Bulletin board recruits were less likely to report anxiety or poor concentration, but
more likely to report tremors/twitches. For the whole sample, lifetime use was
associated more with psychobiologial problems, although this pattern was stronger and
more pervasive for the non-bulletin board participants. Bulletin board recruits were
more aware of possible negative psychological effects and were more likely to report
adopting harm reduction strategies. From the qualitative data three negative
consequences of use were identified, the most common of which was "psychological
problems". In support of the quantitative findings the likelihood of reporting
psychological problems increased with lifetime exposure to ecstasy in both recruitment
conditions but interestingly this did not appear to impact on reasons for cessation of
use. Participants also reported a number of effects that they regarded as beneficial.
Future research should also take these aspects of use into account.
Key Words:
MDMA, ecstasy, 3,4-methyleldioxymethamphetamine, side-effects, neuroprotection
