Exploring the impact of ecstasy on retinal physiology: A pioneer study

Abstract

3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a ring-substituted amphetamine derivative. It is associated with euphoric states, however, it may also cause death. Its actions are caused by alterations on extracellular monoamine neurotransmitters. In the present study, we resorted to electroretinography to assess the acute and long term effects on the retina of MDMA administration. Its effects on glial reactivity were also matter of study. The results showed that a single MDMA administration did not significantly affect the electroretinogram (ERG) response. Repeated MDMA administration caused significant differences in the scotopic tests but similar results were observed for the saline-treated animals. We purpose that stress may influence ERG recordings. Regarding the effects of MDMA on glial reactivity, no significant changes were observed; however, a tendency for an increase in GFAP expression for both single and multiple MDMA administration was detected.