Last Updated: July 19, 2019

By: Rachel Clark, DanceSafe Intern

A round white pill with speckles of color in it was sold in Tampa, FL as MDMA, but actually contained 8 parts caffeine and 1 part methamphetamine. The sample was sourced in Festus, MO and sold in Tampa, FL. 

The sample reacted orange with the Marquis reagent, red and yellow with the Mecke reagent, and light blue with the Mandelin reagent. 

Due to the very high concentration of stimulants in this pill, potential unwanted side effects may include dangerously heightened blood pressure and heart rate, extensive wakefulness, jaw clenching, and pupil dilation. Individuals with high blood pressure or heart conditions that may be exacerbated by stimulants are at higher risk of adverse effects after consuming a substance that contains high amounts of caffeine and methamphetamine. 

Methamphetamine is known to be neurotoxic, causing damage to dopamine neurons. Additionally, it is a highly dependence-forming substance, frequently leading to compulsive redosing and reward-seeking behavior. When consuming stimulants such as methamphetamine, preemptive actions such as hydration, eating (stimulants are powerful appetite suppressants) or taking a multivitamin if eating is not an option, ensuring that one is rested, and communicating planned consumption with trusted friends or family can minimize the risks associated with use. 

We urge our community to keep in mind that drug markets are expansive and that this adulterated MDMA pill may appear in places other than its source and submission location. Using a reagent test kit can help provide a first line of defense as a presumptive (and not affirmative) process. Additionally, samples may be sent in to www.ecstasydata.org for in-depth laboratory testing. Test before you ingest to avoid taking misrepresented substances, and so you can adjust your intention, set, and setting appropriately to minimize risks. You can purchase your DanceSafe test kit here.

The purpose of #TestIt Alerts is to alert the public to misrepresented substances circulating in their region. We neither condemn nor condone drug use, but rather want people to be aware of what they are ingesting so they can take steps to minimize risks.

Since 1998, DanceSafe has been keeping the electronic music and nightlife communities safe. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we provide free harm reduction services at music festivals and nightlife events across the nation. All proceeds from the sales of our drug checking kits go back into the organization so we can continue to provide our services to our communities for free. By purchasing a kit, you are not only helping keep you and your friends safe, you are also contributing to the harm reduction movement. Thank you for your support!