One Pill Doesn’t Mean One Dose

HSE warns of high-strength MDMA in circulation this Christmas

The HSE is urging people to be aware of significant changes in the MDMA market as we enter the busy Christmas and New Year period.
HSE drug-checking, the only service in Ireland analysing substances submitted for harm-reduction purposes, has confirmed MDMA products ranging from 0mg to over 300mg this year, showing how unpredictable the market has become

Professor Eamon Keenan, HSE’s National Clinical Lead for Addiction Services said taking high doses of MDMA has been linked with cases of serious illness and death in Ireland.
“We want you and your friends to stay safe and reduce the harms if you choose to use drugs this Christmas. 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. 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.
We would prefer if people didn’t take drugs, and it is always safer not to use drugs at all. However, the reality is that these high strength pills, powders and crystals are circulating and we want people to be aware of the risks”

Nicki Killeen, HSE Emerging Drug Trends Manager said: “MDMA has changed, and higher strength carries higher risk. With more people socialising, attending events and celebrating over the festive season, we are concerned about people unintentionally taking higher doses, particularly when highly potent powders or crystals are added to drinks. One pill does not mean one dose”.
“Everyone should know the signs of a drug emergency, including pains in the arms or legs, muscle twinges, headache/migraine, overheating, being warm to touch, confusion or seizure. Seek help immediately if someone becomes unwell, seek help immediately. Medics are your mates,” she added.

HSE advice

It is safer not to use drugs at all, if you do…

• Start low, go slow and leave at least 2 hours before taking more.
• Use one drug at a time. Mixing with other drugs including alcohol, over the counter and prescription medication increases the risks.
• Keep cool, stay hydrated but don’t drink over a pint of water an hour.
• Plan a safe way home. Don’t drive after using drugs, they can still be detected even if you don’t feel the effects.
• Look after your community, be a good bystander, make sure no one is left alone
• Know the signs of an emergency: pains in arms, legs, muscle twinges, overheating, being warm to touch, confusion, seizure.
• Don’t delay getting help & medics are your mates
• Stick together and make sure no one is left alone
• Be a good bystander and report anything that doesn’t feel right.

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