Posted by Nicole Grzecki – email
(WTOL) - There are new growing concerns about the drug ecstasy. Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a mood elevating drug that produces a euphoric state. But it can have dangerous consequences.
New statics show emergency room visits related to the drug have shot up 75 percent since 2004.
Sylvania schools drug counselor, Bill Geha, said kids are "playing with fire" when it comes to the drug.
Geha also said suburban kids have easier access to the drug, than alcohol.
That is part of the reason why Doctor Kris Brickman with The University of Toledo Medical Center ER said he is seeing an increase in hospitalizations from "club" drugs like ecstasy.
"Ecstasy is clearly not a safe medication to take in any case," said Brickman.
It is especially dangerous when combined with other drugs.
Doctor Brickman said ecstasy acts as a stimulant that can cause side effects like a spike in blood pressure, body temperature and heart rate. Dehydration is also a threat, especially when ecstasy is paired with alcohol.
"You're talking about something being used by young people who don't always use the greatest common sense, particularly when drinking and partying," said Brickman.
The study found about 20 percent of ER visits involved kids 17 and under.
Experts suggest parents having a series of talks with their kids about the dangers of drugs like ecstasy, especially before they go on spring break or off to college.
