ECSTASY USE HITS CLOSE TO HOME

Editor, The Coast Star:

The recent arrest of two young drug dealers and their huge stash of Ecstasy
highlights the widespread availability and use of this drug, even here in
our own county.

This dangerous drug (possession of which is now a punishable first-degree
crime) has potentially life-threatening repercussions to its users.
Technically named "3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine" and called "MDMA",
"X", "E" or "rolls", it is seen by many people as a harmless "high." But it
is very dangerous and its use has huge risks.

People considering the use of Ecstasy should beware: there are potentially
life-threatening dangers awaiting you. Emergency room incidents of Ecstasy
have increased significantly during the past few years; possible physical
problems include elevated body temperature, accelerated heartbeat, high
blood pressure, panic attacks, muscle cramps or fainting. Other possible
problems include hallucinations. A recent autopsy of a young man who died
of an Ecstasy overdose showed severe reduction of serotonin (a
neurotransmitter) in his brain.

In addition to the dangers of putting a substance into your body which may
be laced with other dangerous drugs, potential users of Ecstacy may become
dehydrated, depressed and confused.

Is the possible short-term euphoria from Ecstasy worth the risk of the
possible long-range impact of severe physical problems or perhaps losing
one's life? No!

Is using Ecstasy worth the risk of contracting HIV or AIDS through reckless
sexual behavior while under Ecstasy's influence? No!

Was it worth the risk of dealing and possessing Ecstasy for these two young
men -- one now dead from suicide and the other who will go to prison for a
long time? No!

There is help available for people (and their families) who are using or
have used Ecstasy. Call the Drug Hotline at 800-225-0196, call us at
431-6451 or look in your telephone book for agencies and individuals in our
area who can help!