Working memory deficits in current and previous users of MDMA ('ecstasy')

Current and previous users of the drug MDMA ('ecstasy') were tested on meas ures of central executive functioning, information processing speed, and on self-report measures of arousal and anxiety. The results were compared wit h those for a control group who did not use MDMA. Relative to the control g roup, both user groups were found to be impaired in some aspects of central executive functioning. Also, there were significant group differences on t he measures of anxiety (users were more anxious! and on arousal (previous u sers scoring higher on the arousal measure relative to current users). User s processed information as quickly as non-users but less accurately. Some p ossible mediators of the above group differences are discussed.