MDMA, also known as ecstasy, is a synthetic drug that is both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. Many people use this drug because it makes them feel happy and energetic after taking it.
Many people who abuse the drug can develop substance use disorder. This means they will have a physical dependence on the drug, and trying to quit MDMA can give them dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
What Is Ecstasy (MDMA)?
Ecstasy is a drug scientifically known asmethylenedioxy-methylamphetamine (MDMA). The drug comes in different forms, such as pills, capsules, powder, or crystals, with similar effects to stimulants like methamphetamine.
While many people take the drug for its euphoric effects, MDMA use also comes with significant risks. People who continuously abuse the drug are more likely to experience its harmful effects on the brain and body.
What Are The Common Street Names For Ecstasy?
Ecstasy is easily obtained through illegal sellers and is often sold on the street under various names, such as:
- E
- Molly
- X
- Adam
- Beans
- Hug Drug
- Lover’s Speed
- XTC
- Biscuit
How Does Ecstasy Affect The Brain And Body?
When a person takes ecstasy, the substance increases the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters enhance mood and sensory perception, so people may feel emotional warmth and increased sociability.
The drug also acts as a stimulant, so people who take the drug may experience increased heart rate and body temperature. Ecstasy can also result in jaw clenching and nausea in many.
How Is Ecstasy Used?
As mentioned earlier, MDMA comes in many forms. The most common way to take the drug is through oral consumption. Tablets or capsules make it easy to take the drug just by swallowing it.
In other cases, people crush the tablets into a powder or use the powder inside the pills so they can snort them. Snorting has quicker effects, which is why some users abuse the drug this way.
The Settings Commonly Associated With Ecstasy Use
Since ecstasy heightens social interactions and sensory experiences, it’s often associated with party environments. People who go to raves, nightclubs, and music festivals use the drug to feel “happier” during these events.
How Do Users Describe Their Experiences With Ecstasy?
Many people associate the use of ecstasy with positive experiences. They feel intense euphoria and report that they feel more connected with others when they take the drug. Those who take the drug at parties say that it enhances the music and lights, which makes the event more enjoyable.
However, these positive effects don’t last forever. After the high of using MDMA wears off, people experience a comedown that makes them exhausted and emotionally drained.
Is Ecstasy Addictive?
Since ecstasy releases serotonin and other feel-good chemicals in the brain, users will be drawn to repeatedly use the substance. This can create a cycle of addiction where the user continues to use the drug to feel pleasure.
What Are The Chances Of Becoming Addicted To Ecstasy?
While the chances of being ecstasy are low compared to other more powerful drugs, it doesn’t mean that the drug is safe to use.It can still lead to dependence and addiction, especially if it’s used frequently or in high doses. In addition, ecstasy abuse can also open the doors to other drug abuse problems.
What Are The Signs Of Ecstasy Dependency?
Here are some of the symptoms of ecstasy dependency to look out for:
- Showing high levels of energy and staying awake for long periods
- Needing a larger dose of ecstasy to achieve the same euphoric effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using MDMA
- Neglecting responsibilities and other obligations to continue using the drug
- Straining relationships and finances because of continued MDMA use
- Disregarding the negative outcomes and consequences of the drug
The Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Ecstasy Use
Using MDMA will result in several short-term and long-term effects. The more you take the drug, the higher your risk for adverse effects.
What Are The Immediate Effects After Taking Ecstasy?
The short-term high offers an overall more positive euphoric mood where people feel increased energy and heightened sensory perception.
However, the effects of ecstasy aren’t all positive. Adverse reactions such as dehydration, nausea, and hyperthermia are all potential risks associated with ecstasy use. These reactions are even more likely when the drug is taken in hot environments.
Potential Long-Term Health Consequences Of Ecstasy Use
Once a person continues to abuse MDMA, they’re subject to the drug’s long-term health consequences, such as:
- Cardiovascular problems like an increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Damage to the liver, kidney, and other organs
- Dental problems to constant jaw clenching and teeth grinding
- Inability to regulate mood and impaired cognitive function
- An increased risk of developing psychosis
- A higher possibility of being dependent and eventually addicted to the drug
Can Ecstasy Use Lead To Mental Health Issues?
Yes, prolonged MDMA abuse can lead to mental health issues. If a person always uses the drug, their brain will ultimately rely on MDMA for serotonin.
Without MDMA, it will be hard for them to feel joy and positive feelings. This is called a state of anhedonia, where a person doesn’t find pleasure in daily activities. It can lead to depression and other mental health disorders as well.
Understanding Ecstasy Use And Its Risks
Drug use comes with risks that you shouldn’t overlook. These risks are dangerous and can even be life-threatening if not addressed immediately.
What Are The Dangers Of Taking Ecstasy?
When a person takes ecstasy, they are at a high risk of different physical and psychological side effects.
For example, taking MDMA in a hot and crowded place may result in dehydration. The drug elevates body temperature, and taking it without adequate water intake may cause organ failure.
People who take MDMA may experience a “crash” after the drug’s effects wear off, leading to feelings of fatigue and irritability in the following days. At high doses, using ecstasy can also induce mild hallucinations and delusional thinking.
The Interaction Of Polydrug Use
Since many people take ecstasy at social events, they may engage in polydrug use. Polydrug use is when you take multiple different substances at the same time. This combination of MDMA and other substances can increase the risk of adverse reactions and may also lead to overdose.
Social And Legal Implications Of Ecstasy Misuse
A person who takes ecstasy is also at a high risk of running into legal problems. MDMA is a Schedule I drug in many countries, which means ecstasy possession or distribution is illegal. People found to be selling this drug are subject to hefty fines and even jail time.
Ecstasy Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you know is suffering from ecstasy addiction, there are different treatment options available.
What Treatment Options Are Available For Ecstasy Addiction?
Some common treatment options available for drug abuse include:
- Detoxification: Detox involves eliminating ecstasy from your body so that you’re able to function normally without the drug. This process is often medically supervised to safely manage any withdrawal symptoms.
- Rehab: Through inpatient and outpatient rehab, people struggling with addiction can find the proper tools and guidance to overcome addiction in a facility where they can focus on recovery.
- Behavioral Therapy: Therapies like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) enable clients to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors so that they can develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Holistic Therapy: Many facilities use a combination of holistic therapies like mindfulness, meditation, acupuncture, and exercise to improve overall well-being.
How Friends And Family Can Give Support
Supporting loved ones going through addiction recovery can be challenging. However, with proper understanding and compassion, it can provide the motivation someone needs to achieve sobriety.
While it’s important to provide as much support as possible, it’s equally as important to set boundaries. Encourage your loved one to receive treatment without enabling their behavior.
What Resources Are Available For Individuals Seeking Recovery From Using Ecstasy?
Aside from rehab facilities, people can find the proper support and research through support groups. Organizations like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) create a community where people can find encouragement from other people going through the same situation. This sense of community can also foster accountability, which is important for maintaining long-term sobriety.
Begin Your Road To Recovery
At Luxe Recovery, we’re your helping hand on the road to recovery. From world-class facilities to experienced professionals, we offer the support you need to achieve long-term sobriety.
Our team will craft a personalized treatment plan that will treat addiction as a whole. Reach out to us today so that you can begin your road to recovery.
FAQs
How long does ecstasy stay in the system?
Ecstasy stays in urine for up to 120 hours and in the blood for up to 71 hours. The drug may stay longer when taken frequently and in higher doses.
Can you overdose on ecstasy?
Yes, it’s possible to overdose on ecstasy when you take too much of the drug. This happens when you aren’t aware of the strength or dosage or when you take MDMA along with other substances.
Are there medications available for MDMA addiction?
There are no medications that can be prescribed to help with MDMA addiction. However, a combination of behavioral and holistic therapies can help you manage recovery.
