Ecstasy or MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a stimulant that combines the properties of methamphetamine or "speed" with mind-altering or hallucinogenic properties. Considered the most commonly used designer drug, Ecstasy (a close derivative of methamphetamine) can be described as a hallucinogenic stimulant.

Ecstasy is used most frequently by teenagers, young adults, and others who attend night clubs and raves. It is found primarily at night clubs, bars, and all-night rave parties.

Raves are all-night dance parties that are held in settings such as vacant warehouses. They have fast-paced and high-volume music, offer a variety of high-tech entertainment, and often incorporate the use of drugs.

Known on the street as Adam, X-TC, Clarity, Essence, Stacy, Lover's Speed, Eve,etc., Ecstasy is most often found in tablet, capsule, or powder form and is usually consumed orally. However, it can also be injected.

An Ecstasy high can last from six to 24 hours, with the average "trip" lasting only about three to four hours. In moderate doses, Ecstasy can cause euphoria, feelings of well-being, enhanced mental or emotional clarity, anxiety and paranoia. Heavier doses can cause hallucinations, sensations of lightness and floating, depression, paranoid thinking, and violent or irrational behavior.

Physical reactions can include the following symptoms: loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, increased heart rate and blood pressure, muscle tension, faintness, chills, sweating, tremors, reduced appetite, insomnia, convulsions, and a loss of control over voluntary body movements. Some reactions have been reported to persist from 1 to 14 days after taking Ecstasy. Individuals who are pregnant, have a heart condition, are epileptic or have high blood pressure, are at high risk of adverse reactions. In addition, users are at particular risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration with physical exertion, particularly when Ecstasy is taken in a dance-party setting. A number of deaths have occurred because users don't drink enough water and dehydrate.