Warning Issued for Trump-Shaped Ecstasy Pills in Netherlands

The Trimbos Institute warns against ecstasy pills resembling Donald Trump, highlighting risks of overdose due to delayed effects.

A Dutch drug addiction and mental health institute has issued a “red alert” to users about potentially lethal ecstasy pills which resemble US President Donald Trump.

The Utrecht-based Trimbos Institute revealed that several of the pills were turned in at testing centres in August, containing a “very high” amount of PMMA, a chemical that poses significant health risks.

The institute’s warning advised, “Do not use this pill under any circumstance,” emphasizing that the drug could lead to “overheating with potentially fatal consequences.” Images of the pills were disseminated, with one side displaying a depiction of Trump’s face and the words “Trump” and “NL” stamped on the other.

PMMA, or para-methoxymethamfetamine, is chemically similar to MDMA, the main ingredient found in ecstasy pills. However, the Trimbos Institute highlighted that the effects of PMMA occur later, and the stimulating effects are frequently absent, which increases the risk of overdose.

Users are cautioned that they might face symptoms including nausea, heightened heart rate, and convulsions hours after consuming the pills. Anniek Groothuis, a spokesperson for the Trimbos Institute, mentioned that there have been no reported cases of death or serious illness as a result of these pills.

Despite the illegality surrounding the production, sale, and use of ecstasy in the Netherlands, a 2024 government report indicated that ecstasy remains a popular choice among party-goers, with around 550,000 individuals having used the drug at least once in 2022.

This is not the first occasion that Donald Trump’s likeness has been employed for the shape of ecstasy pills. In the past, similar designs have emerged, drawing public attention each time.