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Subjective effects of MDMA (‘Ecstasy’) on human sexual function

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 April 2020

D. Aizenberg
Affiliation:
Geha Psychiatric Hospital, Petah Tikva and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O. Box 102, Petah Tikva49100, Israel
A. Weizman
Affiliation:
Geha Psychiatric Hospital, Petah Tikva and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, P.O. Box 102, Petah Tikva49100, Israel
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Abstract

Sexual function following 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or ‘Ecstasy’) consumption was subjectively evaluated in 35 healthy recreational users (20 men and 15 women, aged 21–48 years) with regard to four major domains of sexual activity: desire, erection (lubrication in women), orgasm and satisfaction. Desire and satisfaction were moderately to profoundly increased by MDMA in more than 90% of subjects. Orgasm was delayed but perceived as more intense. Erection was impaired in 40% of the men. It seems that MDMA impairs sexual performance, in spite of enhancement of sexual desire and the perception of greater satisfaction.

Type
Short communication
Copyright
Copyright © Éditions scientifiques et médicales Elsevier SAS

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