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What is MDMA?
Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a synthetic drug that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. It’s known as a “party drug” and comes in pill or powder form. Ecstasy is known to mimic stimulants like methamphetamine but can also mimic the effects of some psychedelic drugs by altering visual and time perception.
What is Molly?
Molly is another term for Ecstasy and MDMA. Molly occurs in crystal form and produces an energizing effect, distortions in time and perception, and enhanced enjoyment of tactile experiences.
Side Effects and Risks of Ecstasy
As with any drug, some risks come with both short and long term use of MDMA. Some side effects include:
- Hyperthermia
- Liver, kidney, or cardiovascular system failure
- Swelling of the brain
- Higher blood pressure
- Involuntary jaw clenching
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Restless legs
- Anxiety and panic attacks
Regular, long-term use of MDMA can lead to sleep disturbances, appetite changes, confusion, paranoia, and memory problems.
Another risk of using MDMA is developing an addiction to the substance. Molly creates a high, euphoric feeling that can cause your brain and body to crave the experience over and over again. This can lead to a substance use disorder that may require professional treatment.
Ecstasy and Other Drugs
MDMA is often taken alongside other “party drugs” and substances such as alcohol, cannabis, LSD and Adderall.
You also run the risk of ingesting Molly when it is mixed with other drugs without you knowing it. Chemical analyses of drugs sold as MDMA have shown that they may include substances such as ketamine, amphetamine, “bath salts,” MDA, and methamphetamine.
What does MDMA Do?
Ecstasy has immediate effects you may feel within 45 minutes of taking it, including the following:
- Feeling happy
- Increased energy
- Alertness
- Increased sensitivity to sights, sounds, touch and smells
- Feeling closer to other people
How Long Does Ecstasy Stay in Your System?
The length of time ecstasy stays in your body can vary by dose. But it will typically remain in your bloodstream for up to three days.
MDMA targets three of the brain’s main chemicals: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemicals influence our mood, sleep, pain, appetite, energy and visual perceptions. People often use this drug to experience feelings of euphoria and reduced social anxiety. As the effects taper off, users tend to feel “down” and often want to recapture that loss euphoria.
Where Can I Find Information About MDMA Abuse Treatment?
Many resources can help you find information and help for treatment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a helpline for those experiencing a crisis. You can call or text 988, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to speak to someone who can assist you in finding help.
Another option is speaking with a medical or clinical professional, such as your doctor or therapist. They can help you find the specific support you need.
Local support groups are a great way to find peer support and feel less alone in your addiction struggle. Narcotics Anonymous is a well-known 12-step program designed to help individuals struggling with a substance use disorder. You can find local group meetings by searching online.
You can also visit Rehab.com to find a list of local rehab facilities.
What Are the Treatment Options for Addiction to Ecstasy or MDMA?
Treatment options for addiction to MDMA are similar to treatment for other substance use disorders. It varies from person to person, depending on your specific needs.
Detox
Treatment will often begin with some sort of detox. This is the process of allowing the drug to leave your system. Withdrawal symptoms are very common during this stage of treatment, and the rehab staff can provide support to make it as comfortable as possible. Short-term medications may be prescribed to treat certain withdrawal symptoms.
Inpatient Treatment
Many patients will undergo some level of inpatient treatment for hallucinogen addiction. This means you will stay overnight in a rehab facility for a number of days, determined by your treatment team. Doing this allows medical staff to monitor your physical health while also providing therapeutic care and support to change addictive behaviors moving forward.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment is very similar to inpatient treatment, but you do not stay overnight at the facility. You’ll be expected to attend regular medical appointments and individual and group therapy meetings. You may be encouraged to join a local 12-step program as well.
Aftercare
Aftercare is an important part of the recovery journey for many people. Relapse is a common experience with substance use disorders, which is why your treatment team will put together an aftercare plan to prevent relapse and ensure your recovery journey continues. Aftercare may include follow-up appointments with doctors and therapists. It may also include regular attendance at local support groups.
