Survival After Massive Ecstasy Overdose

Abstract

We describe a man who, after ingesting 50 tablets of Ecstasy (in combination with oxazepam and alcohol) at home, recovered within 2 days. Presenting features were unconsciousness, apnea, and convulsions. It is suggested that in most cases severe 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine toxicity results from an interaction between direct pharmacological effects of the drug and the prevailing environmental conditions (high ambient temperature, dancing in trance, little fluid intake).