Ecstasy Use Is High

Australia has one of the highest levels of ecstasy abuse in Oceania.

The market for ecstasy in Australia is still attractive.

Organised criminal syndicates in Sydney were detected importing ecstasy ingredients from China which would have produced 2.3 million ecstasy tablets.

Siezures of ecstasy and ecstasy ingredients are increasing.

The high consumption rates of ecstasy amongst Australian young people are a concern.

(Source: International Narcotics Control Board report released 5 March 2013)

DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-

This high rate of ecstasy use in Australia is now being highlighted in international reports.

Ecstasy use is particularly prevalent in young Australians.

Medical evidence shows that ecstasy users risk death, brain damage, psychosis, Parkinson’s effects, birth defects and memory problems.

In the short term ecstasy causes depression, anxiety, paranoia, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks and irritability.

Ecstasy users need detoxification and rehabilitation to eliminate the harms to them and costs to the health system.

By diverting ecstasy users into rehabilitation we cut off money to the criminals and traffickers and improve Australia’s image in the world.