MDMA, commonly referred to as ecstasy or molly, is a type of synthetic drug. It acts as a stimulant and can also produce hallucinogenic effects.
Many individuals describe MDMA as a mixture between LSD and amphetamines. This is because the use of MDMA leads to high energy and hallucinogenic effects. The combination of these feelings can lead to a harsh comedown and severe side effects.
When this substance is taken, an individual’s sensory perception may be increased, producing enjoyable effects. The release of different chemicals in the body from MDMA use causes temporary pleasurable feelings. However, this can lead to many serious negative effects after these feelings wear off.
Properties of MDMA
MDMA has a crystal-like powdered structure. While both molly and ecstasy are considered to be forms of MDMA, molly tends to have a purer form of the chemical. The street name “molly” derives from the term molecular, as MDMA is a molecular powder.
This substance is often taken in the form of a pill, snorted, or smoked on occasion. It is most commonly ingested in a pill form.
What Is an Entactogen?
MDMA falls into the category of entactogens. An entactogen is “a substance that allows or promotes a touching within or reaching inside to retrieve repressed memories,” according to Frontiers in Psychiatry. Other substances that can be classified as entactogens are MDA and other amphetamines.
Side Effects of MDMA Use
Understanding the side effects of MDMA can help you be aware of the potential consequences involved with its use.
When this substance is taken, its effects begin approximately 45 minutes after use. The effects continue to be felt for approximately 3 to 4 hours afterward. Sometimes, MDMA use can lead to mental distortion for a few days following.
Short-Term Side Effects
People who use MDMA may experience many negative short-term side effects. These side effects often involve physical, mental, and emotional changes. They may include:
- Impaired memory
- Irregular heartbeat, potentially leading to long-term heart damage
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Muscle stiffness
- Teeth grinding
- Hot flashes
- Nausea
- Brain swelling
- Seizures
Long-Term Side Effects
Individuals who regularly use MDMA may encounter other side effects as well. These include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Decrease in cognitive functioning
- Decline in neurological development
- Impulsivity
- Heart disease
- Anxiety
- Depression
Multiple-Dose Side Effects
When taking MDMA, it is common for individuals to use multiple dosages to have the effects last longer. There are many potential dangers involved with doubling your dosage. These include:
- Inability to digest
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of other adverse health effects
Risks of MDMA Use
There are many physical and mental side effects involved with the use of MDMA. When this substance is active in the body, it can lower inhibitions and alter the decision-making process. For example, there is an increased potential of engaging in risky sexual behaviors when using this substance. This can lead to sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancy, and other consequences.
The risk of using injections is also increased with MDMA use. Some individuals who regularly use MDMA report sharing needles while the substance was active due to their inability to comprehend the potential danger involved at the time. This can also open the door to opportunities to use other substances, amplifying the risks of substance use.
Best Practices to Overcome MDMA Use
MDMA is commonly used in party scenes. This means it can be hard to stray away from if your social circle tends to engage in parties where this substance is present. If your nights out involve this dynamic, it can be hard to resist using this substance. While the drug may seem to only affect you temporarily after using it, your body and mind may struggle to function well for days afterward.
Seek Treatment for MDMA Use
If you find that you are struggling to avoid using MDMA, reach out to Dream Recovery to seek help right away. By engaging in outpatient treatment services, you can work to develop skills to stray away from high-risk situations. You can learn how to create a friend group that supports your sobriety and discover new fun activities that do not involve the use of substances.
Enjoy Alternative Activities
You may not feel comfortable seeking help right away. In this case, we suggest that you avoid engaging in scenes where this substance is present. Instead, work to find alternative fun activities.
Discuss other engagement options with your social circle to avoid the temptation of using this substance. Allow yourself to take control of what you engage in.
If others around you are choosing to use this substance, consider being a designated driver. Giving yourself an excuse to not use this substance in these types of settings can help you temporarily refrain from use until you are ready to seek help.
MDMA is also known as molly or ecstasy. You may have heard of this substance before, but it is important to understand the dangers involved with its use. If you find yourself using this substance, seek help immediately to avoid encountering long-term and permanent effects, including addiction. By learning about the properties and potential side effects of this substance, you can help others to recognize the harm involved with its use and set yourself up to avoid falling into this addiction. Knowledge is power when it comes to the cycle of addiction and the ability to recover. To learn more about MDMA, reach out to Dream Recovery today at (657) 216-7218.