MDMA is the shortened chemical name for the synthetic psychoactive drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, also known as 'ecstasy'. It is one of the most commonly used substances in Ireland and is associated with the night-time economy and party settings. 

MDMA strength/potency is increasing throughout Europe: MDMA products and drug markets can vary and both high-dose MDMA and adulterated products have been a concern for some time. There have been rising numbers of MDMA-related hospital admissions and deaths in some countries.The latest drug-related death data for Ireland shows that 14 deaths occurred as a result of MDMA use in 2017 with a total of 89 deaths occurring between the period of 2008 -2017.

It is safer not to use drugs at all, there are always risks. If you do choose to use MDMA, consider the risks and steps that can help you reduce harms. 

Be in the know on current MDMA trends:

• Higher strength MDMA = higher risk of taking too much, too soon
• One pill ≠  one dose - larger pills can contain more
• Powder has the same risks as pills- it is hard to know how much you are taking
• Avoid mixing MDMA powder into drinks – it can lead to taking too much too soon and a drug emergency
• Pills that look the same may contain different amounts or other drugs

What’s in MDMA pills in Ireland?
1 in 4 pills tested by the HSE in 2024 had over 200 mg of MDMA- more than double a typical adult dose....