MDMA is an illicit drug, and abusing it can lead to serious health consequences. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, it’s never too late to get help. The proper guidance can help you live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
What Is MDMA?
MDMA is an abbreviation of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. The drug is synthetically made and is known by different street names such as ecstasy, molly, Biscuit, X, and XTC. It’s typically taken in tablet form, but liquid and powder versions of the drug are also sold illicitly.
It’s a stimulant drug, which means your brain will be more awake and alert when you take it. The drug will also speed up messages traveling between the brain and body.
The stimulant effects of MDMA make it very appealing for illicit use. MDMA is commonly known as the party drug. Some people take MDMA to feel more confident in social settings since it creates intense happiness and feelings of connection.
MDMA is also a psychedelic drug or hallucinogen. In some cases, people use the drug to experience altered perceptions of their surroundings. It’s usually the reason why ecstasy is popular among nightclubs and rave culture.
How Does MDMA Work?
When you use MDMA, your body will release a big dose of chemicals in your brain that are responsible for pleasure, reward, and excitement. These chemicals include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. When your brain releases these neurotransmitters when you take the drug, you’ll feel more connected and empathetic towards others.
Is MDMA Addictive?
Yes, MDMA can be addictive, especially when you start repeatedly taking it. While MDMA use usually doesn’t cause strong physical cravings, people who use the drug are at a high risk of getting mentally or emotionally addicted to the drug. Repeated use of MDMA may slowly lead to a tolerance, where you’ll need more of the drug to feel the same effects as before.
Over time, this tolerance can lead to dependence. This is very dangerous and concerning since you’ll start to rely on MDMA for daily functions. You may not even feel happy if you don’t take the drug, so you will start looking for it and taking it just to feel normal.
What Are the Effects of MDMA?
Here are some of the effects that you may feel after taking MDMA or ecstasy:
Short-Term Effects
Shortly after taking MDMA, you’ll experience the following effects:
- Intense euphoria and happiness
- Feelings of empathy and openness
- Faster heart rate
- Alertness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Paranoia
- Clenched jaw
- Blurred vision
- Increased body temperature
- Possible hallucinations
Long-Term Effects
When you continue to abuse MDMA, you’ll slowly suffer from the health consequences that come with long-term use. The long-term effects can show up physically, mentally, and behaviorally.
For example, taking MDMA often increases your heart rate and blood pressure. This extra strain on your cardiovascular system can put you at a higher risk of heart attacks, stroke, and other serious complications.
MDMA also has extreme effects on cognitive health. It can rewire your brain, and you may start experiencing memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and emotional instability. Persistent anxiety, depression, and mood swings may also occur. This can slowly turn into serious mental health disorders that require professional help.
The behavioral consequences of long-term MDMA abuse also extend to your loved ones. More people are going to be concerned for your overall well-being as you start acting out of character from taking the drug too often.
Signs of MDMA Addiction or Abuse
Using MDMA “recreationally” can quickly turn to addiction or abuse. You may struggle with MDMA use if you start:
- Feeling like you need MDMA to socialize or connect with other people.
- Taking more of the drug just to feel the same effects as before.
- Becoming more secretive about your MDMA use.
- Prioritizing using the drug over other responsibilities.
- Getting into financial problems to fund your use of the drug.
- Experience negative feelings or sensations once you stop taking the drug.
Treatment Options for MDMA Addiction
There are many treatment options available for those struggling with MDMA addiction. With professional help, you can successfully stop taking MDMA and live a healthier, sober life.
The most common treatment available for substance abuse is rehab. During rehab, you’ll go through different therapies, attend support group sessions, and participate in holistic activities to heal from addiction. Your treatment plan will be tailored according to your unique goals and situation, giving you the best chance at recovery.
Find Recovery from Drug Abuse with Luxe Recovery
Struggling with drug abuse can be extremely difficult, and it becomes even more challenging if you feel like you don’t have access to proper treatment.
If you feel like you need help with substance misuse, Luxe Recovery is more than happy to assist you. Our team makes it a point to provide empathetic care for every client so that you feel seen and heard during treatment.
There’s no need to go through this difficult time alone. Reaching out for help will always be a sign of strength.
