STRAIGHT DOPE ON DRUGS

* Ecstasy or MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine) was a diet drug used
in the early 1970s. Today, many pills or capsules that are sold as 'e'
are chemical cocktails containing anything from crystal meth and
synthetic heroin to bleach. It is taken orally in 50- to 200-milligram
tablets or gelatin capsules.

Ecstasy users usually feel a heightened sense of euphoria, energy and
confidence that can last four to six hours. Its negative side effects
can include psychiatric disturbances such as panic, anxiety,
depression, hallucinations and paranoia. Its potential physical side
effects include muscle tension, nausea, blurred vision, fainting,
chills, sweating, an increased heart rate and blood pressure, tremors,
a reduced appetite and sleep problems.

* Crystal methamphetamine is a highly addictive central nervous system
stimulant that produces some of the same effects as ecstasy, only it's
much stronger. It is usually snorted in its powder form but can be
swallowed, injected or smoked. The effects can last four to 14 hours.

Long-term use of crystal can cause violent and aggressive behaviour
and severe paranoia. It can also cause anxiety, increased blood
pressure, psychosis, nervousness, convulsions, heart and blood vessel
toxicity, insomnia, anorexia and hallucinations.

Some users of ecstasy and crystal suck on soothers or chew lollipops
while high to ease tension in their jaws that can cause them to grind
their teeth.

* Special K (ketamine hydrochloride) is a liquid that is dried to a
crystal-like powder that can be snorted or smoked.

Users sometimes call the high caused by this drug "K hole" and
describe profound hallucinations that include visual distortions,
delirium and a loss of time, sense and identity. The high lasts 30
minutes to two hours.

Long-term side effects include amnesia, impaired motor functions and
potentially fatal respiratory problems.

* GHB (gamma hydroxybutyric acid) is an odourless, almost tasteless
substance available in liquid or powder form.

Users report that GHB induces a state of relaxation. The effect can be
felt within five to 20 minutes after ingestion and lasts about 1-1/2
to three hours.

GHB has been implicated in cases of rape. Its side effects can include
nausea, vomiting, respiratory problems, seizures and coma. It has been
reported as the cause of several recent deaths in the United States.

* PCP (phencyclidine) is a white crystalline powder with a
distinctive, bitter chemical taste. It comes in a variety of tablets,
capsules and coloured powders. It can be snorted, smoked, or eaten.

Users of PCP may feel detached from reality and experience
hallucinations. They have been known to exhibit aggressive and violent
behavior. High doses may cause temporary psychosis. Physical side
effects include muscle rigidity, coma and convulsions.

PCP is often used as an additive in drug cocktails and can be found as
an additive in marijuana, LSD, ecstasy and methamphetamine. A PCP high
generally lasts two to four hours, although the effects can continue
as long as a few days.

Richelle Forsey, 24, is an editor at Young People's Press and an
occasional rave-goer.