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In conclusion In this discussion I have had to leave many avenues unexplored, for a more comprehensive review see Morgan (2000). My evaluation of the evidence leads me to believe that MDMA itself, if used irregularly and at a low dose, poses a very small threat to the user. The problems arise however when one considers two facts. Firstly, MDMA is an illegal drug and its supply is therefore not subject the rigorous quality control procedures which safeguard the pharmaceutical industry, leaving the user vulnerable to both erratic dosing levels and the toxicity of other compounds which may be present in the pill. Secondly it was shown above that a significant proportion of MDMA users do not exercise sensible caution when deciding their level of use, thereby deliberately using MDMA at a dose which is likely to cause long term neurotoxicity. See our links for information on minimizing the risks of MDMA use.

The legalisation of MDMA would allow the close regulation of its production so errors in formulation would cease to expose users to the dangers of other compounds, and allow those who wished to use MDMA to minimise the risk to themselves. It would, however, inevitably increase the overall level of use and thus expose more individuals to the dangers of use, small as they may be. Switzerland has recently downgraded MDMA to a soft drug, which in my opinion, is the worst option as it increases overall use while gaining no control over the production and supply of the drug.

As to whether the widespread use of MDMA has started a neurotoxicological time bomb. I do not see any real evidence that it has. I believe certain individuals will experience serious problems through the injudicious use of MDMA or because of poor quality supply, but the overall picture has to be kept in perspective and I believe that perspective places it as a relatively insignificant problem for society as a whole.

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