What is MDMA?
MDMA is a derivative of methamphetamine and its parent compound, amphetamine. Its structure is different from other amphetamines due to its molecular structure that in some ways resembles mescaline and its effects (Kalant, 2001).
Molecular Structure of MDMA
MDMA is an abbreviation for the full chemical name which is 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine. The molecular structure of MDMA is C11H15NO2. MDMA is a chiral molecule and has both a S(+)- and R(-)- enantiomer, with the S(+)- version being the stronger of the two; previous research has used racemic MDMA, a mixture of both enantiomers (Lyon et al., 1986; Shulgin, 1986).
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Note
In MDMA-assisted therapy, pure pharmaceutical-grade MDMA Hydrochloride that conforms to Good Manufacturing Practice standards is administered. When obtained illegally, substances sold as MDMA are often diluted with filler substances or laced with other active chemicals such as methamphetamine (Brunt et al., 2017; Tanner-Smith, 2006).
References
Brunt, T. M., Nagy, C., Bùˆcheli, A., Martins, D., Ugarte, M., Beduwe, C., & Ventura Vilamala, M. (2017). Drug testing in Europe: monitoring results of the Trans European Drug Information (TEDI) project. Drug Test Anal, 9(2), 188-198.
Kalant, H. (2001). The pharmacology and toxicology of "ecstasy" (MDMA) and related drugs. CMAJ, 165(7), 917-928.
Lyon, R. A., Glennon, R. A., & Titeler, M. (1986). 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): stereoselective interactions at brain 5-HT1 and 5-HT2 receptors. Psychopharmacology (Berl), 88(4), 525-526.
National Center for Biotechnology Information (2022). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 1615, 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine.
Shulgin, A. T. (1986). The background and chemistry of MDMA. J Psychoactive Drugs, 18(4), 291-304. h
Tanner-Smith, E. E. (2006). Pharmacological content of tablets sold as "ecstasy": results from an online testing service. Drug Alcohol Depend, 83(3), 247-254.