A new injectable drug is being trialled to combat MDMA-induced hyperthermia
Ryanodex is aimed at festival drug users
Eagle Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is currently developing a new injectable medication called Ryanodex, which will be used to counteract the hyperthermia effect often induced by an MDMA overdose.
Ryanodex will act as an internal ice pack, cooling down one's body quicker and more effectively than the current fans and cold water bottles on offer at festivals. Although water stations are a staple at most events, the increase of MDMA-induced deaths calls for a more proactive solution.
Hyperthermia occurs when an individual who has taken MDMA or ecstasy overheats and causes the body and major organs to fail. The drug eliminates the brain's ability to regulate and sense body temperature. This paired with sweltering heat at outdoor summer festivals means overheating occurs regularly.
The injection is currently only available to official healthcare providers and may make appearances at festivals and events as soon we next year.
Sydney is Mixmag's US Digital Content Editor. Follow her on Twitter here