Warning: A high dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablet has recently been found in NSW. The MDMA dose in the tablet was 414 mg. This is four times the average amount usually contained in MDMA tablets circulating in NSW.

Note: Tablet appearance is not a reliable indicator of drug contents

Know the risks

• You are at increased risk of harm if you:
  • take multiple MDMA (ecstasy) tablets or capsules
  • take a higher-dose MDMA tablet or capsule
  • use other stimulant drugs (e.g. amphetamines or cocaine) at the same time
  • take MDMA in a hot environment like a music festival or indoor dance party
• MDMA (ecstasy) is often poorly manufactured and the amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot, even within the same batch.
• The time from taking the drug to feeling any effect can vary significantly depending on the drug as well as the individual person. If it’s not working, don’t redose.
• High-dose MDMA use has been linked to death and other serious harms.

Effects to look out for

• Feeling really hot and sweaty
• racing pulse/heart or light headed
• rigid muscles (e.g. difficulty walking), uncontrolled repetitive movements, seizures
• confusion or agitation, feeling aggressive, difficult to rouse / unconscious
• vomiting

If you or others experience these symptoms after taking MDMA, get help immediately.

Getting help

If you or your friends see the warning signs of overdose:

• Seek help immediately from your nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000). You won’t get into trouble for seeking medical care.
• Start CPR if someone is not breathing.

Support and advice

For free and confidential advice:

• Call Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015 at any time 24/7. Start a Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm.
• Call NUAA on 1800 644 413 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) to speak to a peer or visit NUAA for a range of resources.
• Call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for information on adverse effects from drugs.
• Visit Your Room for fact sheets and other resources.

Reproduced by permission, NSW Health © 2023.