Empathogens

Category: Hallucinogen, Stimulant

Drugs in this group

MDMA (Ecstasy), MDA, PMA, PMMA, Ethylone, Methylone, Butylone, 3/4 -FMC, 5/6 -APB, ⅚-EAPB, ⅚-MAPB, 4,4’-DMAR, 4-MTA, 5-APDI.

Summary

They can be taken as tablets or as powder/ crystals.Tablets are usually swallowed – although some people crush them up and smoke or snort them. Crystal/powder form can be ‘dabbed’ onto the gums or snorted.

Effects

Users of Empathogens say they often feel ‘loved up’, connectedness, warmth, arousal and understanding.

Users may also experience excessive sweating, mood swings and sometimes depression.

Risks

Risks can include feeling anxious or getting panic attacks, and developing confused episodes, paranoia or even psychosis.

Use can quickly lead to overheating and dehydration – especially if dancing in a hot environment, like a club, without taking breaks or drinking enough non-alcoholic fluids. This can be fatal.

Anyone with a heart condition, blood pressure problems, epilepsy or asthma can have a very dangerous reaction to the drug.

If you are taking them

If you take empathogens there are some things you can do to reduce the risks.

  • Avoid taking another dose before you feel the effects. Remember, it can take longer for the same drug to have an effect on you than it might someone else.
  • Keep hydrated but don’t drink too much. A standard glass of water an hour is recommended.
  • Make sure you don’t overheat. Go outside occasionally to cool down.

Legal Status

The most recognisable drugs in this category are MDMA (ecstasy) and PMA and these are both class A drugs.

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