Two orange spade press pills were brought to CanTEST for testing, expected to contain MDMA. The pills appeared to be poorly pressed (see photos). Both were found to contain N,N-dimethylpentylone and MDMA.

What does this mean?

N,N-dimethylpentylone (DMP) is a synthetic cathinone. Synthetic cathinones are stimulants that may have similar effects to MDMA.

Cathinones can significantly affect body temperature regulation and increase the risk of cardiac events (e.g. heart attack) and neurotoxicity.

When combined with MDMA, the risk is much higher.

Signs can include a fast heart rate, dilated pupils, disorientation, hallucinations, high blood pressure and overheating. Some user reports indicate that comedown from synthetic cathinones can last several days or weeks, and can be accompanied by insomnia and suicidal ideation.

Reducing the harm

Test your stuff!

The contents of every pill or capsule may vary a lot, even if they appear similar or are from the same batch, same supplier or source.

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.

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 500 mL per hour while physically active). Stay in the shade, use a cold compress, slow down and take breaks from dancing etc.

Think someone has overdosed?

Call 000 for an ambulance. At a festival? Head to the medical tent or get a friend to call for help.