'Is ecstasy riskier for people with asthma?'
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Q: I have asthma and wondered if this put me at any extra risk when taking ecstasy. I have never taken E but I think I want to try it. However, before I decide I would like to know whether having asthma means it is riskier for me. If I used my inhaler whilst on a pill, would this be classed as mixing drugs and put me in even more danger? Luke, 16. |
our online advisors reply:
I'm glad you've asked this question because taking ecstasy if you have asthma is definitely not a good idea. Of course, E has risks for everyone, but the chances of having a serious problem are higher for someone with asthma. The same goes for other medical conditions including epilepsy, heart problems, high blood pressure and diabetes. There's more information about the effects and risks of E in our abc of drugs.
Firstly, ecstasy affects the breathing, so the potential for an impact on asthma is obvious. Another thing to think about is the kinds of things people typically do when they are on E. Long periods of dancing in a club are also likely to have an effect – as you probably know, vigorous exercise is a common trigger for asthma. Most clubs are pretty smoky places too, so that could be another problem.
It might seem like all you need to do is make sure you take a full inhaler with you, just in case your breathing does get difficult. But you're absolutely right to think about whether using your inhaler would put you in more danger. In fact, this could be the biggest risk for someone with asthma who takes ecstasy. Ecstasy raises the blood pressure and heart rate, which is why it's dangerous for someone who already has high blood pressure. The trouble is that inhalers do exactly the same thing so you'd be putting even more strain on your circulatory system. If someone with asthma takes ecstasy it would be better for them to use their inhaler beforehand, in the same way as some people do before they take exercise.
Have you seen the National Asthma Campaign's website for young people – Kick Asthma. There's a page there called E – the facts, which has more detail about the effects and risks, and how to stay as safe as possible if you do decide to take ecstasy. We have a general article about safer using on our site too.
By the way, Luke, have you ever looked into the possibility of complementary therapies helping your asthma? Alternative medicine is definitely not a substitute for conventional asthma treatment, but there is some reasonably good evidence that a number of therapies can make a contribution. Check out our page on asthma and complementary medicine if you want to find out more.
Obviously it's up to you whether you take ecstasy or not. I hope this answer helps you make a decision.
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