n and higher cognitive processes (Mathis 3). MDMA neurotoxicity has been shown to lead to impairments in verbal reasoning and attention span, decision-making, information processing, logical reasoning and simple problem solving, with the largest decrements occurring to those who use the drug most often (Kalant 4). The psychological implications of brain damage are extensive and varied, and include greater impulsivity and lack of self-control, panic attacks, recurrent paranoia, hallucinations, depersonalization, flashbacks, and psychotic episodes (all occurring even after months of abstinence). Chronic and severe depression is also a concern, as this brain damage-induced depression can only be remedied with a lifelong treatment of antidepressants (Kalant 4). Another important psychological concern is Ecstasy’s potential for abuse, as “the strong euphoria associated with MDMA points towards a high abuse potential” (Beck 14). Individuals who have tried both MDMA and cocaine have consistently shown a strong preference for MDMA, and studies conducted at John Hopkins University have revealed that primates will self-administer MDMA on a regular basis (Beck 14). Although ecstasy is not considered by doctors to be physically addicting, Dr. Alan Leshner, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse has said, “whether or not it produces physical dependence is not relevant. Methamphetamine and crack cocaine don’t cause physical dependence according to physical medical criteria, but they are among the most addicting substances ever known to man kind” (Mackeen 3). MDMA is by far one of the most hazardous drugs being used today by the youth of America. It is dangerous in the physiological effects it has on the user while under the influence of the drug, and also in the long-term damage it has shown to cause to the brain. It has been known to cause strokes, heart attacks, and even death, and has been p...
