Ecstasy use can place users at risk of a variety of health and social harms. Many of the short-term health risks are a result of the combination of the effects of the drug with the environment in which it is taken. Problems have arisen in regard to dehydration, overheating and exhaustion when the drug has been combined with strenuous activity. The mood altering effects of ecstasy may also increase the likelihood of participation in unsafe sex or unwanted sex.

There is also some evidence that long-term use of ecstasy may contribute to mood disorders and problems with memory and attention (1)

Availability: Whilst a number of drugs may be sold as ecstasy, MDMA is considered to be a "scarce commodity" (1). A number of other substances may be combined and sold to users who believe that they are buying ecstasy, hence user reports on availability of MDMA are difficult to quantify.

Most ecstasy is imported from overseas either via air passengers or the postal stream (1).

Purity: Average purity for 1999/2000 was 35%

Resources have been developed and distributed to young people in social settings, clinicians and the community. These are part of the Polydrug Peer Education Project.

A Ecstasy Fact Sheet has been developed for clinicians and the community. It is available on www.ceida.net.au

Funding of $215,000 per year for three years has been provided for telephone counselling, referral and support to Kids Help Line.

Information resources have been provide as part of the Young Offenders Act Cautioning Scheme to ensure young people receive appropriate information when being cautioned by police.

A 'one-stop-shop' Delivery Model' for young people in rural areas has been developed. The focus is on providing youth-friendly spaces, targeting information, recreation activities and access to services such as counselling and referral.