TEACH MODERATION IN DRUG USE

Your May 18 feature article "The Agony of the Ecstasy" reminds me that
journalistic pursuits often fall prey to omissions of truth, skewing social
perceptions about drugs in general and in this case MDMA.

Ecstasy or MDMA, was first synthesized in 1914 and originally sold as a
diet pill. It was rediscovered in the 1960s and used by psychologists in
therapy of individuals and couples in the 1970s and 1980s as a tool to
enhance empathy. While its effects are profound for the user, its
recommended use was limited to once a year. For this reason the
pharmaceutical industry opted for other psychotropic drugs like Prozac,
which would insure continued profits since the user would require daily
doses of dependent use over years and decades.

In 1986 it was made illegal in the U.S. and only then did it become popular
as a street drug and used at parties and raves in the U.S. and Europe. The
black market took over, where private regulated business would not. It may
be true that young people are abusing MDMA, but like LSD in the 1970s, its
widespread use will fade.

What young people need is calm and understanding, not reactionary
proclamations from New Times alarming the public that "so many people" are
in denial about "SLO county's drug epidemic." This is blatantly false and
can only further endanger our young people.

We should teach our youth, since they will experiment with drugs, that
irresponsible drug use leads to abuse and health consequences. To do that
we need responsible journalism that encourages our youth to use drugs,
licit or otherwise, responsibly. To do that we need the specifics about
drugs. We should have empathy, teach moderation, and be true about our
concerns for their health and well-being. If we do that all of society will
benefit.

Alan McAfee, Nipomo