Electrocortical effects of MDMA are potentiated by acoustic stimulation in rats

We investigated the effects of low doses of MDMA in vivo using Wistar rats in the absence of acoustic stimulation (white noise; 95 Db) demonstrating that ecstasy is able to induce a significant activation (reduction of Electrocortical total power) of the telencephalic cortex that spontaneously reverts in the absence of sensorial stimuli, whereas it persists for several days if, in addition to MDMA, the animals are exposed to acoustic stimulation.Our data demonstrate that low doses of MDMA are able to reduce electrocortical total power, and that this effect is potentiated by sensorial stimuli commonly present in certain environments, such as rave parties.The use of illicit drugs such as 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; ecstasy) has increased among young people in Europe and North America [1,2] over the past years.Concern has been expressed about the increasing popularity of this stimulant drug and its association with certain youth subcultures, in particular the dance music scene [3].The widespread use of ecstasy is due to its ability to produce feelings of euphoria and energy and a desire to socialize. In addition to these positive effects, MDMA is relatively inexpensive to produce and purchase and has the reputation of being safer than other recreational drugs.Yet there is mounting evidence that ecstasy does not deserve this rosy reputation. In fact, evidence has been accumulated, both in human and animal studies, that shows the possible risks engendered by the consumption of MDMA [4]. In many reviews these risks are extensively discussed in terms of toxicity, psychopathology and abuse potential associated with acute and chronic use [5].It is also clear that some environmental conditions can influence the toxicity of this drug in humans. For example, one of the consequences of the use of ecstasy at "raves" is the increase in body temperature that is due to a direct action of the drug on the thermoregulatory system, to the intense muscular activity and to el