WRITTEN QUESTION E-1104/00

by Cristiana Muscardini (UEN) to the Commission

(7 April 2000)

Subject: Synthetic drugs and consequences for health

The spread of synthetic drugs among young people in Europe is still on the increase. Commentators, doctors and educators are issuing warnings about the impact on health of taking such drugs. Ecstasy in particular seems to be the most widespread. It is even advertised on the Internet, which also provides instructions for manufacturing it at home.

In view of this scourge and the differing opinions about its consequences, can the Commission confirm:

1. that the increased incidence of Parkinson's disease among young people can undoubtedly be attributed to the devastating effects of ecstasy and other synthetic drugs on the brain;

2. that there is definite medical and scientific evidence that taking such drugs damages the nervous system;

3. that there are research programmes partly funded by the EU;

4. that there are plans to disseminate this information to schools?

Answer given by Mr Vitorino on behalf of the Commission

(22 May 2000)

According to the latest figures from the European monitoring centre for drugs and drug addiction (EMCDDA), 0,5 to 3 % of the general adult population in Europe and between 1 to 5 % of young adults have tried ecstasy (MDMA). Locally and within specific groups the figures are much higher and in general, EMCDDA information confirms an upward trend in the use of ecstasy and other synthetic drugs.

As yet, little is known about the long-term effect of ecstasy use. Based on recent research findings, it is thought that ecstasy causes damage to the neurones that use the chemical serotonin to communicate with other neurones. Some research findings link ecstasy use to long term damage to those parts of the brain critical to thought and memory. There are also increasing concerns about the possibility of mental health problems, especially chronic depression, in connection with heavy long-term use of the drug.

MDMA structure and effects are related to metamphetamine, which has been shown to cause degeneration of neurones containing the neurotransmitter dopamine. Damage to these neurones is the underlying cause of the motoric disturbances seen in Parkinson's disease. However, much more research is needed in order to establish a scientifically reliable link between the use of ecstasy and Parkinson's disease.

The fifth framework programme on research has a specific action line on public health research which also addresses drug related health problems. Research priorities include determining the social, psychological and socio-economic factors related to drug dependence and developing better understanding of the long-term health and social consequences of drug use. Four projects

have been selected for funding this year and the Commission can assure the Honourable Member that the programme will be effectively used for funding high quality studies in this field.

The risks posed by synthetic drugs are among the challenges identified in the Community drug strategy 2000-2004. The strategy emphasises the need for providing young people with accurate and reliable information on the effects of these substances. The Commission can confirm that every effort is made to ensure that this information is disseminated in schools. Already, many projects funded by the Community drug prevention programme have concentrated on the prevention of the use of synthetic drugs.