[Issued 02 February, updated 04 February 2026]

The risk of harm is increased when MDMA is taken in high doses or with other stimulants.

Synthetic cathinones, such as dipentylone, are stimulants.  The risk of serious harm is increased when taken with other stimulants.

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 multiple stimulant drugs (e.g.,​ MDMA, synthetic cathinones, amphetamines or cocaine) at the same time
  • take MDMA in a hot environment like a music festival or indoor dance party.
• The effects of taking both MDMA and dipentylone, and how fast or slow they come on, may differ to MDMA alone. If you’re not feeling the effects yet, don’t re-dose.
• The dose in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot, even within the same batch.
• High-dose MDMA use has been linked to death and other serious harms.

Effects to look out for

• Feeling really hot and sweaty.
• Racing heart/pulse or light-headedness.
• Rigid muscles (e.g., difficulty walking), uncontrolled repetitive movements, seizures.
• Confusion or agitation, feeling aggressive, difficult to rouse or unconscious.
• Vomiting.

If you or others experience these symptoms, 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 responsive.

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 information on staying safe at music festivals.