PMA

Paramethoxyamphetamine (PMA) and paramethoxymethamphetamine (PMMA) are stimulants with hallucinogenic effects similar to MDMA, which is the main ingredient in ecstasy. In fact most people who take PMA or PMMA think they are taking ecstasy. However, drugs sold as ecstasy may not contain any MDMA. They can be a mix of amphetamines, PMA, PMMA, ketamine, NBOMe, methylone or other substances. This is potentially harmful as PMA and PMMA have more toxic effects (and are less euphoric) than MDMA. It also takes longer to feel these effects, so people may take another pill in the mistaken belief that the first has not worked, sometimes resulting in overdose.

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Common Names

  • Death
  • Dr Death
  • Pink Ecstasy
  • Red Mitsubishi
  • Killer
  • Chicken Powder
  • Chicken

How is it used?

PMA and PMMA are usually swallowed and can be snorted or injected.

PMA and PMMA have been around since the 1970s and have been associated with a number of deaths over the years worldwide.

PMA/PMMA Overdose

Dangerous Signs

If you take a large amount or have a strong batch, you could overdose. If you have any of the symptoms below, call an ambulance straight away by dialing 999 or 112:

  • Kidney failure
  • Extremely high body temperature
  • Vomiting
  • Convulsions and seizures
  • Coma
  • Death

Overdose

High doses of PMA or PMMA are potentially lethal.

Taking PMA or PMMA with other drugs such as alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, cannabis and some prescription medications such as anti-depressants (SSRIs and MAOIs) can be potentially fatal.

Side Effects of
PMA/PMMA

There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk.

The effects of taking PMA with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous.

PMA/PMMA affects everyone differently, based on:

  • The amount taken
  • A person’s size, weight and health
  • Whether the person is used to taking it
  • Whether other drugs are taken around the same time
  • The strength of the drug (which can vary from batch to batch)

Effects May Include:

  • Feeling alert and excited
  • Seeing colours and shapes
  • Heightened senses (sight, hearing and touch)
  • Dry mouth
  • Teeth grinding
  • Increased sweating
  • Increased heart beat and blood pressure
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Irregular eye movements
  • Muscle spasms
  • Nausea

Long-term effects:

The long-term effects of PMA and PMMA have not yet been established but health professionals believe they may have similar long-term effects to ecstasy.