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Ecstasy is the more common street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, also known as MDMA or "Molly." The drug has chemical structure similarities with other hallucinogens, such as amphetamine and can produce stimulant and changes in the sensory system. 1
MDMA is known by many names, including: 1,2 The person who purchases the MDMA
X.\sXTC.
Lover's Pace.
Adam.\sEve.
Peace.\sClarity.
Merck KGaA (German pharmaceutical company) invented the drug in 1912.
3 Ecstasy was a popular drug in the world of party culture during the 1980s. It was in part due to Alexander Shulgin (a Harvard psychopharmacologist), who experimented with the drug in his backyard. It became very popular and was soon available in electronic music festivals, raves and clubs. 4 In 2016, 1.4m people aged 12 or above reported using hallucinogens. 5
The emergency ban of 1985 by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration on Ecstasy put the drug into greater scrutiny. It was classified as a Schedule I drug. This means that it is highly vulnerable to abuse and does not have medically approved uses. 2
The tablet is often marked by a logo, and is available in a colorful shape. You can also buy it in powder, liquid or capsule forms.
The perils of "Molly."
Below is a video from UMass Medical School explaining why Molly isn’t a safer alternative to other drugs as many believe it to be.
The Short-Term Effects
MDMA is a stimulant that has hallucinogenic properties. People can experience a variety of effects in the first few minutes after taking it. The effects of Ecstasy may last anywhere from 3 to 8 hours. Here are some potential consequences: 7
Euphoria.
The emotions have been elevated.
Mental clarity has been improved.
Hallucinations.
The thirst and appetite of the patient is reduced.
MDMA can be hazardous in the short term MDMA can cause: 2
Hyperthermia.
Sweating.
Chills.
The blood pressure has increased.
Anxiety is on the rise.
Nausea.
The vision is hazy.
This is not a voluntary act of teeth clenching.
Tension in muscles
Tremors.
Fainting.
Seizures.
You may experience other unanticipated side effects if the ecstasy tablets contain methamphetamines or caffeine. MDMA users are often unaware that street-sold MDMA products may contain additional substances, which when mixed, could cause serious harm. All common ingredients in molly comprise selegiline, cough medicine and caffeine. 2,8 Sometimes, people intend to purchase ecstasy. But the pills they purchase don't contain any. 8 Different drug uses can result in various impacts. Furthermore, combining unknown additives with other drugs like marijuana or alcohol could significantly increase the chance of adverse consequences. 8
MDMA can cause intoxication for as long as 8 hours. When the effects of the initial dose start to fade, it is common for people to take another dose. For up to a week, the following side effects can occur:8
Anxiety.
Depression.
Sleep issues.
Memory issues.
Appetite suppression.
Inability to enjoy sex, or lack thereof.
Impetuous behavior.
Aggression.
Even though ecstasy overdoses are rare, they can lead to death from hyperthermia, liver failure, heart disease or kidney damage.
8 The consumption of this drug can cause severe dehydration. It obfuscates the need for water, food, rest, and increases temperature and intensity of physical exercise. The retention of water can cause serious electrolyte imbalances or brain swelling in users who drink a lot of water to counter dehydration.
Long-term effects
MDMA may cause a decrease in serotonin levels due to the increase in serotonin release from certain neurons. Serotonin neurotransmission plays a critical role in sleep, depression, and pain. If it is affected, it could lead to serious psychological effects and cognitive impairments. If neurotransmitters aren't functioning properly, it is more likely that disorders such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other mental disorders will occur. 2
MDMA could cause long-term side effects for those who take it regularly. According to research that has been conducted, the long-term effects of MDMA usage can result in:2,7
Confusion.
Attention is not as sharp.
Increased impulsivity
Memory loss.
A decrease in desire for sexual stimulation.
Aggressive demeanor.
Is Ecstasy Dependent?
Some people claim that they have developed an addiction to MDMA. However, there is a wide range of research findings and clinical opinions regarding the possibility of MDMA addiction is a real. Based on some research, rats will continue self-medicate with MDMA in a similar manner as they self administer cocaine. 8 Blue tesla pill
MDMA can create physical dependence and tolerance.
A person who develops a tolerance to MDMA will require increasing amounts of MDMA to attain the same effects. Someone who is who is new to MDMA may take one tablet, while an existing user could take several tablets. A seasoned user could take up to 25 tablets per session. Binge-eating or intense self-administration are also known as "stacking", which means taking multiple tablets at once or "boosting," which is taking more than one dosage. Increased drug-related problems have been associated with tolerance and binges. 9
Ecstasy addiction can result in physical dependence. When one is addicted to ecstasy, they could experience an unpleasant withdrawal syndrome. Two withdrawal symptoms that MDMA users have experienced are: 2
Appetite loss.
Fatigue.
Depression.
Problems with concentration
Compulsive behavior can result from frequent MDMA usage. Work, school obligations, relationships, and even work can all become secondary to the drug. A shift of priorities can indicate an onset of addiction. MDMA addiction can result in unsafe, risky, or even illegal behaviour. 10
Treatment
Professional help can be very helpful in ending a prolonged period of ecstasy abuse, especially if it is in high doses and for an extended time. MDMA users may be using taking self-medications to deal with the stressors that they face within their lives. Professional treatment for addiction programs that focus on mental health issues can help them to address the emotional traumas or conflicts that have caused their MDMA abuse. 11
There aren't any drugs specifically approved to treat the symptoms of MDMA addiction, therefore treatment will be the primary component of treatment, in which the individual will work to comprehend the causes of their addiction as well as the triggers that cause it.
8 Cognitive behavioral therapies are among the most efficient treatments for people suffering from an MDMA addiction. These treatments help patients become more aware and conscious of their actions, thoughts, and expectations.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a person learn coping skills so that they do not have to resort to MDMA for stress relief. Participating in group meetings for recovery can offer an abundance of relief and hope for those suffering from an MDMA addiction. A cost-effective and effective solution to aid in the long-term recovery process is to join an ongoing support program. 12
When you're ready to search for a treatment plan, Make a list of questions you'd like to ask prior to making contact. It is a good idea, before you make any decision about a rehab. If you have any questions regarding the payment plan, insurance, therapy types or the average length of stay, make sure to ask the potential rehab programs. If you have insurance you can keep your insurance ID card and your insurance number close in your pocket. The card number can be called to determine the amount of insurance coverage.
