Ecstasy as a Potential Cause for Diffuse ST Elevation in a 27-Year-Old Healthy Male: A Case Report

Ecstasy, also known as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), is widely used as a recreational drug known for its stimulating effects. While acute coronary syndrome and coronary vasospasm are frequently observed following cocaine and methamphetamine use, there have been few reported cases linking them to ecstasy use. We present a case of a 27-year-old, previously healthy, male presenting with oppressive retrosternal chest pain and diffuse ST-segment elevation, despite a normal troponin, several days after ecstasy use. His presentation followed by a normal coronary angiography is most consistent with an episode of coronary vasospasm. It is plausible that the consumption of MDMA contributed to this presentation. MDMA can lead to cardiovascular issues by increasing serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline levels, which may cause symptoms like coronary vasospasm. Although conclusive evidence linking MDMA to acute coronary syndrome is limited, cases of transient coronary vasospasm and thrombosis have been reported, suggesting a need for prompt evaluation and management of such conditions.

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Journal
Cureus
Published
2025-06-11
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.85795
Citations
1
Primary Topic
Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis
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article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
1.31
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article

Ecstasy as a Potential Cause for Diffuse ST Elevation in a 27-Year-Old Healthy Male: A Case Report

Georges Ghanem, Rabih Nasrallah, Amin Ossaily, Mazen Al Hammoud et al.
1 citations
Cureus
Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis
1.31
article

Ecstasy as a Potential Cause for Diffuse ST Elevation in a 27-Year-Old Healthy Male: A Case Report

Georges Ghanem, Rabih Nasrallah, Amin Ossaily, Mazen Al Hammoud, Anwar Nader
article en
1 citations

Abstract

Ecstasy, also known as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), is widely used as a recreational drug known for its stimulating effects. While acute coronary syndrome and coronary vasospasm are frequently observed following cocaine and methamphetamine use, there have been few reported cases linking them to ecstasy use. We present a case of a 27-year-old, previously healthy, male presenting with oppressive retrosternal chest pain and diffuse ST-segment elevation, despite a normal troponin, several days after ecstasy use. His presentation followed by a normal coronary angiography is most consistent with an episode of coronary vasospasm. It is plausible that the consumption of MDMA contributed to this presentation. MDMA can lead to cardiovascular issues by increasing serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline levels, which may cause symptoms like coronary vasospasm. Although conclusive evidence linking MDMA to acute coronary syndrome is limited, cases of transient coronary vasospasm and thrombosis have been reported, suggesting a need for prompt evaluation and management of such conditions.

CureusVol. 17(6)
University Medical Center Rizk Hospital (LB), American University of Beirut Medical Center (LB), Lebanese American University (LB)
Zero hunger
Openalex Percentile: Top 23%
Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis
1.31
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Ecstasy as a Potential Cause for Diffuse ST Elevation in a 27-Year-Old Healthy Male: A Case Report — Georges Ghanem, Rabih Nasrallah, et al. · Cureus (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS