L.A. health department asked to revise ecstasy fliers

By Staff Writer

The Los Angeles County Public Health Department is facing criticism after producing a flier that some people claim is a how-to guide to using ecstasy.

According to FOX News, the flier campaign was started to warn music festival attendees of the dangers of taking the synthetic, psychoactive drug. However, the flier offers some tips for drug users who consume the substance, such as take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and do not mix ecstasy with alcohol or other stimulants.

The Los Angeles Times reports that L.A. County Supervisor Michael Antonovich claimed that the flier crossed the line by "counseling young people" on how to use the illegal substance. The health department said that it will revise the message to emphasize the dangers of illegal drug use instead of providing harm-reduction tips.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimated that 1.1 million people used ecstasy for the first time in 2009, which was significantly higher than the 894,000 first-time users in 2008.

Problem teens who experiment with drugs at social gatherings could benefit from tough love. Parents may consider not allowing their children to attend music concerts without adult supervision.