There are a lot of reasons why people use drugs. Some people, especially those with medical conditions, use them to manage their symptoms. Others use them as a means of coping with their symptoms. And some do it because taking a drug can have pleasurable effects. This is the ‘high’ that many people who use drugs chase.
But the high is fleeting, and some other effects of drug use can last longer than the high. these effects, especially in the cases of long-term drug use, can have a profound impact on a user’s life.
At Luxe Recovery, we can help people recover from their substance use and manage, and in some cases reverse, some of the adverse effects they’ve had to struggle with as a result of that substance use.
What is MDMA or Ecstasy?
MDMA, also known as ecstasy, 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine, E, or molly, is a synthetic drug that is similar to both stimulant and hallucinogenic substances. When ingested, it can produce feelings of emotional warmth and pleasure and alter a person’s perception of time and their senses.
However, other effects of ecstasy can include an increase in body temperature, which can be worrisome when paired with hot environments and physical exertion. It’s also possible for a person’s temperature to get too high, resulting in overheating, organ failure, or worse.
Because people use MDMA as a party drug, it is often found in nightclubs, concerts, raves, parties, and outdoor music festivals. Because of where it’s commonly found, it’s not uncommon for people to take MDMA with other substances, such as alcohol, which can exacerbate its negative effects.
Is MDMA Safe?
The use of molly does come with a number of risks. One of those risks is serotonin syndrome, which is when a person’s levels of serotonin increase in the brain. This can be potentially life-threatening.
That said, MDMA is not considered an addictive drug. But that does not mean that it is a safe drug to take. There are, however, a few things that a person can do to mitigate the harm caused by taking ecstasy.
One simple way to reduce MDMA’s harmful effects is to stay hydrated by drinking water. Having a small cup every hour or so can prevent dehydration. Some people, however, may overcorrect and drink a large amount of water. This can lead to water intoxication and a low concentration of sodium in the blood.
Mixing MDMA with another substance should also be avoided, as the two substances can exacerbate each other’s harmful effects.
The Long-Term Effects of MDMA Use
Chronic MDMA use can lead to several long-term effects on the brain and body. Some of the effects of taking MDMA can include:
Behavioral and Psychological Changes
Using ecstasy can lead to psychological effects such as persistent mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Psychosis is also associated with MDMA use, especially in those who already have underlying mental health conditions.
Some users may also become socially isolated due to them withdrawing from family and friends to either hide their substance abuse or to spend their time with other MDMA users instead.
MDMA can also increase a person’s impulsivity, which can lead to risk-taking behavior.
Sleep disturbances are also possible with MDMA. Insomnia and poor quality of sleep can worsen many of the other problems.
Changes in the Neurological System
Long-term MDMA use can damage serotonin neurons in the brain, which can lead to permanent changes in brain chemistry. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter heavily involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite.
It can also cause cognitive impairment, especially regarding memory and learning. These impairments can persist even after someone stops taking MDMA.
Effects on Physical Health
Similar to other drugs with stimulant properties, one of the long-term risks of ecstasy is that it can increase heart rate and blood pressure. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart disease.
Health effects may also include liver failure and kidney damage, especially for heavy MDMA users and those who mix ecstasy with other substances.
Treatment for MDMA Misuse
People who use MDMA frequently may find themselves in a position where they want to break free of their habits. Some of the treatment options that can help people overcome their ecstasy habit include:
Detoxification
The first phase of treating a substance addiction is detox. This is the phase of treatment wherein a person purges their body of illicit substances. Detox can come with unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
While some users may feel fatigued, ecstasy is not usually associated with physical withdrawal. However, psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, irritability, cravings, and mood swings may appear.
While withdrawal can make detox difficult, it is a vital part of the recovery process.
Behavioral Therapies
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of treatment concerned with the relationships between thoughts and behavior. It can reduce unhealthy behavior by identifying and changing negative thought patterns that may contribute to it.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches patients skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These can help a person manage their cravings. Because ecstasy is often taken as a party drug, managing interpersonal relationships better may help reduce a person’s MDMA consumption.
Holistic Therapies
Holistic therapies can complement evidence-based treatment. By integrating practices such as yoga and meditation into treatment, patients can develop mindfulness skills, allowing them to feel their cravings without acting on them. Many practices also help enhance a person’s physical health as well.
Aftercare
While inpatient care can be a powerful tool in treating a person’s addiction, most programs only last about 28 to 90 days. Some patients may need more support than that.
Recover from the Use of Molly at Luxe Recovery
There’s nothing wrong with attending parties, concerts, nightclubs, or raves. There’s nothing wrong with taking substances at these places to enhance enjoyment.
Addiction is a complex condition that is caused by several factors and is not a simple matter of saying no. Addiction is a difficult condition to live with, but it’s a condition that, if given proper treatment, can be managed.
At Luxe Recovery, we make it our mission to help those affected by addiction. Whether for you or a loved one, our treatment can help manage addiction. Contact us now to begin the recovery journey. We take most forms of insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Recreational Ecstasy Use Cause Long-Term Cognitive Problems?
Yes. Ecstasy can alter a person’s brain chemistry, which can lead to long-term cognitive impairment even after a person stops using the drug.
Is MDMA Addictive?
While ecstasy is not considered an addictive drug, there are still people who become dependent on it and subsequently develop a substance use disorder.
What Should We Advise Ecstasy Users?
Users should take care not to mix ecstasy with other substances, such as alcohol. They should also drink an adequate amount of water and avoid strenuous physical activity when on the drug.
