Effects of "Ecstasy" Blocked by Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Letter to the Editor

Sir: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), better known as Ecstasy, is a synthetic amphetamine analog that can be classified as a phenethylamine-type hallucinogen. The drug is commonly linked with "rave" dance parties, and its use has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. The primary mechanism of action of this agent is thought to be via indirect serotonergic agonist effects with release of serotonin stores and blocking of serotonin reuptake, although the drug also affects other neurotransmitter systems.