RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, MDMA (3.4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine), also known as "ecstasy" or "molly," is a synthetic psychoactive drug that combines hallucinogenic properties and the characteristics of amphetamine; and
WHEREAS, MDMA has the potential effect of producing a transitory feeling of euphoria and empathy, giving rise to the nickname ecstasy. But those effects are far outweighed by the dangerous side effects of MDMA; and
WHEREAS, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the very chemical effects that produce temporary euphoria in MDMA users also suppress other natural chemical processes in the brain, and can cause confusion, depression, memory impairment, depression and sleep disorders that can last for days after use; and
WHEREAS, when consumed in large amounts, MDMA has been shown to cause spikes in body temperature that can lead to organ failure, severe seizures and even death. But if the user is in a crowded, active environment, the same dangerous side effects can occur; and
WHEREAS, MDMA can also cause a sense of dehydration and profound thirst that many users attempt to counter by drinking large amounts of water, which can inhibit the body's ability to shed excess heat through perspiring and increasing the risk of a temperature spike, organ failure, seizure and death; and
WHEREAS, MDMA use has become popular among young people attending concerts and music festivals - the type of crowded, active environment that can trigger the drug's worst effects even when taken in small doses; and
WHEREAS, between 2005 and 2011 the number of minors rushed to emergency rooms and hospitalized for severe effects of MDMA use; and
WHEREAS, in 2013, four deaths were attributed to MFMA use by young people attending concerts; and
WHEREAS, MDMA use has increased among minors, many of whom are ignorant of how the drug can affect them or, because of their immaturity, do not believe that any adverse effect can befall them; and
WHEREAS, Chicago is justifiably proud of hosting music festivals of various types, at many locations. Regardless of type and location, all these festivals will have in common crowds, loud sound, audience response and light - a combination that can trigger and worsen the effects of MDMA use;
WHEREAS, it is appropriate that the City of Chicago take steps to inform its residents, especially adolescents, of this particular danger to their lives and wellbeing; now, therefore.
BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council, though its Committee on Health, conduct one or more public hearings on the dangers of MDMA, with a special focus on the deleterious effects of the drugs on minors; and
George Cardenas Alderman, 12th Ward