Ethanol co-administration moderates 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine effects on human physiology

J Psychopharmacol. 2010 Feb;24(2):165-74. doi: 10.1177/0269881108100020. Epub 2008 Dec 12.

Abstract

Alcohol is frequently used in combination with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Both drugs affect cardiovascular function, hydration and temperature regulation, but may have partly opposing effects. The present study aims to assess the acute physiologic effects of (co-) administration of MDMA and ethanol over time. A four-way, double blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled study in 16 healthy volunteers (9 male and 7 female) between the ages of 18 and 29. MDMA (100 mg) was given orally and blood ethanol concentration was maintained at pseudo-steady state levels of 0.6 per thousand by a three-hour 10% intravenous ethanol clamp. Cardiovascular function, temperature and hydration measures were recorded throughout the study days. Ethanol did not significantly affect physiologic function, with the exception of a short lasting increase in heart rate. MDMA potently increased heart rate and blood pressure and induced fluid retention as well as an increase in temperature. Co-administration of ethanol with MDMA did not affect cardiovascular function compared to the MDMA alone condition, but attenuated the effects of MDMA on fluid retention and showed a trend for attenuation of MDMA-induced temperature increase. In conclusion, co-administration of ethanol and MDMA did not exacerbate physiologic effects compared to all other drug conditions, and moderated some effects of MDMA alone.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Blood Pressure / drug effects
  • Body Temperature / drug effects
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Drug Interactions
  • Ethanol / administration & dosage
  • Ethanol / pharmacokinetics
  • Ethanol / pharmacology*
  • Female
  • Hallucinogens / administration & dosage
  • Hallucinogens / pharmacology*
  • Heart Rate / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Male
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / administration & dosage
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / pharmacology*
  • Time Factors
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Hallucinogens
  • Ethanol
  • N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine