Glow parties are the latest cool, fun trend among teenagers. Crowds of youth come to listen to music, dance, and wave glow sticks in the air. The parties, which feature loud music and throbbing lights, are promoted as safe and alcohol-free events for kids as young as 16. Even with an entry fee as high as $40, many parents feel comfortable allowing their teens to attend a dance party that they believe is safe.

Unfortunately, these parties may be alcohol-free, but they aren’t necessarily drug-free. Molly, short for molecule, is almost always widely available at a glow party. Molly is a slang term for the powder or crystal form of the chemical MDMA, the main ingredient in Ecstasy. MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive drug that produces feelings of euphoria, increased energy, emotional warmth toward others, and distortions in sensory and time perception. It raises your body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Ironically, the parties’ signature glow sticks, which seem so innocent, are there to enhance the effects of Molly. Strob lights and the waving neon colors give the drug user increased feelings of euphoria and distortions in their sensory perception.

Teens are very susceptible to trying Molly, as the drug is cheap, easy to access, and more “fun” than other drugs. Many adolescents have a mistaken perception that Molly is a “safe” drug. Molly, which is mentioned frequently in pop culture and music, is an addictive drug and has been linked to many recent hospitalizations, overdoses, and even deaths among youth.

Parents should be wary of allowing their teens to attend a glow party. Parents should also use this information about glow parties to talk to their children about drugs and explain the negative consequences. Studies show that parents have a strong influence on teen decision-making. We need to convince young people that they don’t need a mood-altering substance to let loose and have fun at a concert, party, or other venue.