A new study examines the use of drugs at EDM-related events and the adverse effects of such in order to better inform prevention and harm reduction.

The research, published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, gathered data from 1,029 adults, all of whom attended EDM events in New York City in 2018.

Participants who had used drugs within the past year were asked if they experienced any harmful or very unpleasant effects after use, during which they were concerned about their immediate safety. They were also questioned on the co-use of other drugs and whether they sought help.

An estimated third (33.5%) of EDM party goers had experienced an adverse effect from drugs within the year. Two thirds (67.8%) of adverse effects involved alcohol consumption. These adverse effects most commonly came from the use of prescription opioids (41.2%) or alcohol (33.9%).

Mixing drugs was common among those who recalled having adverse effects. Particularly among users of LSD (56.5%), ketamine (56.3%), cocaine (55.7%), and ecstasy/MDMA/Molly (47.7%).

Adverse effects from synthetic cathinone aka “bath salts” were most likely to result in a trip to the hospital (57.1%).

The researchers on this topic believe further investigation is needed to fully understand adverse effects of common drugs taken at EDM events. Common sense dictates moderation and education; knowing what you’re taking before doing so is the easiest way to make sure you don’t end up in the hospital at the end of the night. Visit DanceSafe to learn more about harm reduction and also purchase a testing kit for your own safety.

Source: International Journal of Drug Policy, Vol. 73