Ecstasy alert: HSE warns drug users about high-dose MDMA

The HSE's clinical lead for addiction services says he'd prefer if people didn't take drugs. But, if they do, to beware of the risks of high-dosage ecstasy. Stock picture

The HSE has urged party-goers this Christmas to be aware of the risk from high-dose MDMA, with “dangerous” tablets containing over 300 milligrams — more than three times the average — in circulation.

HSE drug-checking has confirmed MDMA tablets ranging from 0mg to over 300mg this year.

The high dose can lead to serious illness or death, it warned.

HSE national clinical lead for addiction services, Eamon Keenan, spoke out to highlight the risks.

“We want you and your friends to stay safe and reduce the harms if you choose to use drugs this Christmas,” Professor Keenan said.

“Year on year, we’ve been seeing increases in MDMA potency, and this year we identified tablets containing over 300 milligrams of pure MDMA.

That’s more than three times the average adult dose and the highest we’ve ever seen in Ireland. 

He warned that MDMA at this strength is very dangerous.

“It can cause a rapid and significant rise in temperature, seizures, or cardiac complications, and it can be fatal.”

Dr Keenan called on people to be aware.

“We would prefer if people didn’t take drugs, and it is always safer not to use drugs at all.”

They have seen “high strength pills, powders, and crystals” circulating.

The HSE advises it is safer not to use drugs, but they also issued safety guidelines:

• Start low, go slow, and leave at least two hours before taking more;
• Use one drug at a time. Mixing with other drugs including alcohol, over-the-counter drugs, or prescription medications increases the risks;
• Keep cool and stay hydrated, but don’t drink over a pint of water an hour;
• Plan a safe way home and do not drive after using drugs;
• Know the signs of an emergency — pains in arms, legs, muscle twinges, overheating, being warm to touch, confusion, seizure.

HSE emerging drug trends manager Nicki Killeen advised people to be cautious, saying: “MDMA has changed, and higher strength carries higher risk.”

The fear now is people might accidentally take higher doses than intended and she highlighted the risk of “highly potent powders or crystals” added to drinks.

“One pill does not mean one dose,” she said.