A purple ‘trapstar’ press pill was brought to CanTEST for testing, expected to contain MDMA. The sample was found to contain MDA (26% free base purity) as well as MDMA (2% free base purity).

What does this mean?

MDA is stimulant with hallucinogenic properties. Its properties are similar to MDMA, but it has a slower onset (up to 90 minutes), can be longer lasting (5-8 hours vs MDMA’s 3-6 hours) and produce more psychedelic effects. If you are expecting MDMA and your pill contains MDA instead, it could result in an unpredictable or unpleasant experience.

Effects

Unexpected MDA consumption may alter the effects you were expecting from MDMA. Since MDA can have a slower onset, this could lead to redosing.

MDA, like MDMA increases serotonin and carries a risk of serotonin toxicity, particularly at higher dose or when combined with other serotonergic substances, and may have a longer duration of action and broader stimulant effects.

Signs can include confusion, agitation, overheating, seizures, fits, fast/irregular heart rhythm, muscle tension, uncontrolled movements (e.g. shaking foot/leg, wobbling eyes)

Reducing the harm

Test your stuff!

While it’s not unusual for CanTEST to see MDMA adulterated with small amounts of MDA, the amount in this sample has the potential to cause greater harm.\

Come and see CanTEST for testing in Canberra.

Start low, go slow

Try a test dose and never use alone.

Experiencing adverse or unexpected events? Ask for help and don’t take more.

Know the signs

Signs to be aware of include an unusually fast heart rate, agitation, difficulty sleeping, overheating, or anxiety. If you or someone else experience severe symptoms like chest pain, confusion, a sudden severe headache or signs of overdose – seek medical help immediately.

Think someone has overdosed?

Call 000 for an ambulance.