These neurons produce chemicals that regulate emotions. The drug also affects memory. For many, Ecstasy produces a feeling of euphoria and unstoppable energy.
Many students first try the drug at raves, or all- night dances, and find they can dance all night.
I've been seeing many young people in their late teens and early 20s using what's called Ecstasy, said Dr. Kenneth Skodnek, chairman of psychiatry and psychology at the Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow. When even younger youngsters use alcohol and marijuana, it's not uncommon for them to use this drug. Although many students think it's a safe drug, it's not. It's a synthetic and, since it's a street drug, no one knows precisely what's in it. Sometimes manufacturers add dangerous additives or small amounts of other drugs, such as heroin and cocaine.