Sample #1

• Dark grey pill: Maserati press
• Total weight of pill 436mg
• MDMA purity 41% (176mg free base)

Sample #2

• Dark grey pill: Maserati press
• Total weight of pill 430mg
• MDMA purity 39% (170mg free base)

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What does this mean?

A common dose of MDMA is between 80-120mg. This means the amount of MDMA in these pills is significantly more than the amount a person may usually expect to take.

These pills were each brought separately to CanTEST for testing. The amount of MDMA in every tablet and capsule may vary a lot, even if they are from the same batch, supplier or source.

Effects and signs of an MDMA overdose can include signs of serotonin toxicity, like confusion, agitation, overheating, seizures, fits, fast/irregular heart rhythm, muscle tension, uncontrolled movements (e.g. shaking foot/leg, wobbling eyes) nausea/vomiting, loss of consciousness.

The health risk is greatly increased if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over an extended period of time (a day/night). Some interactions with other stimulants and medications can increase the risk.

Serotonin toxicity can be fatal. Responding quickly is crucial when serotonin toxicity is suspected. Call 000 for an ambulance. If you’re at an event, get the attention of a crew member (first aid, security, peer support/harm reduction service etc).

Reducing the harm

Test your stuff! While the drug checking results for these examples was MDMA, as expected, we’re issuing these notices because the amount found was much higher than a common dose. CanTEST uses equipment that can quantify the purity of active ingredients for most common drugs and scientific scales. For pills, the weight x purity indicates the amount of active drug. Come and see us at CanTEST for testing in Canberra.

Start low, go slow. Take half or less and ask a trusted person to check on you. Experiencing adverse or unexpected effects? Ask for help and don’t take more.

Stay hydrated and keep cool. Your hydration level at any given time is based on your fluid intake for the 72 hours prior; stay hydrated, but don’t drink too much (up to about 500mL per hour while physically active).

Think someone has overdosed? Call 000 for an ambulance.