Ecstasy was patented by the German pharmaceutical company Merck in the early 1900s.  Chemically, it is closely related to methadrine and is popular because it typically creates in the user a feeling of warmth, closeness and compatibility, while increasing energy levels.  Its popularity began growing in the 1970's and today it is used to enhance party experiences by young people in many countries.  Don't think that just because someone doesn't go to "raves," they're not using Ecstasy.  It is also used recreationally, both in groups and individually.

The risks - While the popular media continues to underreport the dangers inherent in Ecstasy, the emergency rooms and funeral homes tell a much different story.  The real-life risks documented in Voice of the Victims include:

• "Bleeding Out" and dying.  When you take Ecstasy, you have no way of knowing what the effect will be, especially the first time.  There are many documented cases of Ecstasy users suddenly overheating to temperatures of 108 degrees F, causing them ultimately to "bleed out", as internal organs melt and die.  Bodies stay warm to the touch hours after dying.

• Water poisoning.  Ecstasy also effects how the body metabolizes water.  Because Ecstasy use is often associated with long bouts of dancing, users frequently drink plenty of water.  When water metabolization breaks down, the body retains dangerous amounts of water within.  This leads to swelling of the brain, which can lead to permanent brain injury or death.

• Purity.  People whose motivation is profit, not purity, manufacture the drug clandestinely.  In order to increase profits, or hide their drugs from drug-sniffing police dogs, they substitute impure drugs, like PMA, that can have extremely damaging effects on users.

• Promiscuity.  The "lovey-dovey" feeling caused by Ecstasy can cause users to be more promiscuous, in ways they normally wouldn't.  Unprotected sex is also more likely, leading to heightened risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV and AIDS.

• Brain damage.  Ecstasy works by tricking the brain into releasing large amounts of serotonin, causing a false sense of euphoria.  The chemistry involved in accomplishing this trick is complex, and many doctors now believe the process causes serotonin-releasing brain cells to be damaged or destroyed.  There is fear that this will lead to the creation of masses of chronically depressed ex-Ecstasy users, or to a permanent "E-tarded" condition - in other words, a life-long continuation of the post-high spaciness (diminished mental capability) many Ecstasy users suffer from.

• Parkinson's Disease.  Many scientists speculate that Ecstasy use may be linked to early onset of Parkinson's Disease, a debilitating and permanent neural disorder.  We are awaiting the publication of a definitive study and will update the Web site as soon as it is published.

The Signs - Ecstasy use doesn't show up in common urinalysis or blood tests, and is more difficult to spot than marijuana or alcohol highs.  Nevertheless, there are common signs:

• Long periods of wakefulness followed by long periods of sleep.  This is a somewhat natural condition among teenagers and young adults, so look for other signs to supplement this indicator.

• Dental Problems.  Ecstasy users often grind their teeth, so sudden and dramatic wearing down of teeth is a common side effect of Ecstasy use.

• "Rave" paraphernalia.  Pacifiers are often used to counter the grinding of teeth.  Light toys, light glow sticks and various spinning-light toys are also popular with users.

• Vision problems.  Looking at those bright lights is not without risks.  When eye doctors report unexpectedly high rates of unusual vision problems with younger patients, Ecstasy use is often identified as a probable cause.

• Changes in spending patterns.  Ecstasy usually costs $20 or more per tablet, and most users will take two or three tablets in the course of a long night of partying.  This could lead to a need for money, petty thievery or changes in spending patterns.