One of the most talked about drugs today, MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), popularly known as Ecstasy, has made national headlines and attracted the attention of scientists, law enforcement, politicians and parents. Originally patented by Merck Pharmaceutical Company in 1914, MDMA was rediscovered in the early 1970s by chemist Alexander Shulgin. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the drug spread to some members of the psychiatric and psychotherapeutic communities, who hailed MDMA's benefits in treating patients with terminal illness, trauma, phobias, drug addiction, and other disorders. Originally dubbed a "penicillin for the soul," users of MDMA report enhanced sensations, heightened feelings of empathy, self-acceptance and a general feeling of relaxed euphoria.

By 1986 the drug was classified as a Schedule I drug, defined by the DEA as having high abuse potential and no medical value. Its non-medical use was effectively prohibited, and scientific research was also blocked until the first safety study was finally approved by the FDA in 1992.  The first study of MDMA's therapeutic use, in patients with chronic, treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was finally fully approved February 24, 2004. 

During the late 1990s, Ecstasy use increased significantly, doubling among teens despite its illegal status.  By 2001, 12% of high school seniors reported they had tried the drug, with use declining somewhat in recent years.

Commonly associated with rave culture and all night dance parties, MDMA use may have short-term risks including overheating and dehydration due to elevated body temperatures combined with physical exertion. Counterfeit substances passed off as Ecstasy also increase risks for users. "Fake" Ecstasy pills sometimes include dangerous drugs such as DXM (dextromethorphan) and PMA (paramethoxyamphetamine), which are believed responsible for a number of "Ecstasy" overdoses. Recently, many media reports have focused on the government's exaggeration of the long-term affects of Ecstasy.  Though some preliminary research suggests heavy Ecstasy use is associated with slightly lower performance on some neurocognitive functions, many more studies are needed to determine whether MDMA is a causal factor and whether the findings have any clinical significance.

In the past few years, the government has launched major media campaigns and legislative measures targeting MDMA. In 2001, harsher federal penalties for MDMA offenses went into effect, treating MDMA more seriously than cocaine and almost as seriously as heroin. Some states also imposed harsh penalties for Ecstasy, including Illinois' draconian law in which anyone convicted of possessing fifteen doses of MDMA must serve four years in state prison.

Federal authorities are also attempting to prosecute club and rave promoters under the "Crack House" law - arguing that clubs which host electronic music dance acts function as crack houses because patrons may have been selling or using drugs. Though federal authorities have tried to ban pacifiers, glow sticks and masks as "drug paraphernalia" at electronic music shows, the ACLU in February 2002 won a case that determined these objects could not be banned from musical venues.

The Drug Policy Alliance is working toward educating young people and parents honestly about Ecstasy through our Safety First Project. Furthermore, on the federal and state levels, DPA advocates just laws and tries to prevent the enactment of exceedingly harsh penalties. Lastly, DPA supports continued research on long-term effects and the potential for therapeutic uses.