play safe

Ecstasy and other club drugs are not that dangerous if you take a few simple intelligent precautions.

drink water
The recommended amount of water to drink is 500ml per hour's dancing. Remember: sip, don't gulp. Do not drink too much water.

drink fruit juices
They are more efficient in replacing lost nutrients. Avoid fizzy drinks as they can cause nausea.

take Vitamin C
It's an antioxidant and will prevent MDMA neurotoxicity. Take large amounts of it (500-2000mg) before, during and after. Avoid Vitamin C tablets with artificial sweeteners (see below)

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avoid 'diet' drinks
In fact, any drink containing artificial sweeteners (such as aspartame). They contain phenylaline, a substance which increases neurotoxicity of MDMA

take breaks
rising body temperature is the most dangerous physical aspect of Ecstasy use. Take regulars breaks from dancing to cool down. If possible, go outside.

avoid alcohol
It increases body temperature, makes the kidneys work much harder and gives a much worse come-down. Almost all E-related deaths have involved alcohol.

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first times
Never take a whole pill the first time. You may be extremely sensitive to Ecstasy.

don't mix pills
in the same session to reduce the chance of impurity interactions, or being flattened by two pills with radically different strengths

watch the dose
never take more than one pill, less if you are female and / or you have a small build. Never double drop or take two pills at the same time. The more MDMA you take, the more likely you are to suffer from overheating, neurotoxic effects and memory impairments.

get pills tested using a testing kit
Many users lick pills before buying them in an attempt to identify the taste, but speed and MDMA have almost identical tastes. You can find out about testing kits here.

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keep groups of friends together
especially if they are inexperienced users, and be prepared to talk people through bad times; (see our bad trip guide for more details)

leave time between regular Ecstasy use
At least one month, preferably two or three. This will make each occasion much more special; it will also keep your tolerance levels down.

NOTE: If you or your friends experience any of the following, then seek medical attention:

• disorientation: somebody being unable to say where they are or what day it is.
• drowsiness,unresponsive to instructions like "open your eyes."
• breathlessness or strained breathing
• feeling abnormally hot despite attempting to cool down or being in a cool environment etc.
• collapse and unconsciousness