Does MDMA cause changes in thermoregulation?
Hyperthermia: (overheating/heat stroke) Ecstasy raises body temperature. Users frequently take MDMA at a club or rave setting where they dance for long periods. MDMA increases the desire to exercise beyond the user’s limitations. The ambient temperatures and excessive exercise both increase body temperature. Sometimes, the ecstasy tablets are not 100% pure and contains dangerous substances (such as DXM) that also raise body temperature. Hyperthermia is probably the result of an interaction of drug effects, setting of use, and user’s behavior. How does MDMA raise the body temperature? MDMA induces vasoconstriction (blood vessel narrowing) which slows heat loss. When overheating occurs, the body loses fluids. MDMA may mask the feeling of thirst. Dehydration impairs sweating and therefore cooling. It is essential to take in fluids in order to prevent dehydration. What happens if hyperthermia persists? Hyperthermia can develop into tachycardia (rapid heart action), hypotension (abnormally
