NCJ Number
215013
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 41 Issue: 8 Dated: 2006 Pages: 1095-1109
Date Published
2006
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study examined the characteristics of regular ecstasy users who combined alcohol with other drug use and considered whether there were additional problems or increases in risk-taking behavior associated with this practice.
Abstract
Regular ecstasy users in the study were already involved in risk-taking behavior, as they were involved in illegal behavior. It was found that a large proportion of the regular ecstasy users interviewed usually binge drank while under the influence of ecstasy. The binge drinkers were the ones that appeared to be at increased risk with regard to unsafe sex practices. They were more likely than either the moderate drinkers or the no alcohol group to report having unsafe sex with casual partners while under the influence. Other risk behaviors identified in all groups include overdose, and driving under the influence of drugs. Overall, there were more differences between nondrinkers and drinkers than between lower and higher risk drinkers, except in terms of safe sex practices under the influence, in which binge drinkers were at increased risk. This study examined alcohol use in conjunction with ecstasy use and risk-taking behaviors among regular ecstasy users in every capital city in the country of Australia. Data on drug use and risks were collected in 2004 from a national sample of 852 regular ecstasy users. Users were grouped according to their typical alcohol use when using ecstasy: no use, consumption of between one and five standard drinks, and consumption of more than five drinks or “binge” alcohol use. Tables, references