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The Comprehensive Effects and Side Effects of MDMA and Ecstasy
Medically reviewed by
MDMA is a drug that is primarily a stimulant. Also known as ecstasy or molly, it is also a mood enhancer, and its consumption results in increased energy, empathy, and enhanced sensations. The drug comes with significant Ecstasy side effects that can range from mild to severe. Some of the side effects include dehydration, hyperthermia (increase in body temperature), anxiety, and, in some rare cases, serotonin syndrome. Over a longer period, it can change the brain’s chemical composition as well.
Understanding MDMA and Ecstasy
MDMA is an abbreviation for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine. Sounds complicated, right? The drug’s effects are as complicated, if not more. Its effects are similar to both amphetamines and hallucinogens. It increases feelings of pleasure, improves energy and emotional warmth, and distorts the senses. While it began as a drug that aided psychotherapy, it quickly devolved into a party drug that the youth used.
Background of MDMA and Ecstasy
The drug was first created in 1912 by chemists in Germany. It was initially intended to control bleeding. In the 1970s, it gained popularity as a supplement to psychotherapeutic approaches. But by the 80s, it was being used extensively as a recreational substance, leading to its ban in many countries.
Popularity and Usage Trends
As mentioned above, by the 80s and 90s, MDMA gained much popularity amongst the youth as a party drug. It was also popularized in movies and TV shows and became a part of mainstream popular culture. In recent years, despite it being illegal, MDMA is still consumed in large quantities because of its alleged enhancement of mood and sensory experiences.
Short-Term Effects of MDMA and Ecstasy
The short-term MDMA side effects can be quite volatile. A person who has consumed the substance often experiences an intense burst of energy, heightened senses, and a significant improvement in mood, sometimes even leading to euphoria.
But there are some major MDMA side effects, too. The person might also experience nausea, chills, sweating, muscle cramps, blurred vision, clenching of teeth, and grinding of the jaw.
Physical and Psychological Effects
Physically, individuals will feel a rush of energy, increased heart rates, and increased blood pressure. Psychologically, while improved mood and empathy are highlighted, a person could also battle anxiety, agitation, and a disconnection from reality, which can make the experience quite unpredictable.
Immediate Health Risks
As it is with most substances out there, the pleasure that MDMA brings to a person also comes with multiple caveats. Consuming MDMA is always a flip of the coin, with there being uncertainty on how the drug will affect each individual. But some major risks, even when things are going well, are dehydration, heart issues, or even kidney failure. Especially in hot, steamy party environments where the drug is most popular.
Long-Term Side Effects of MDMA Use
Over time, MDMA use will wear your body down and, in some cases, can leave your life permanently altered. People who have consumed MDMA over a long period of time have reported facing memory problems, concentration issues, and insomnia in some cases.
Chronic Health Implications
Prolonged use of the drug also has multiple implications for your physiological health. These include complications like liver damage, kidney failure, and, most commonly, hypertension and heart issues. This is apart from the permanent changes the drug can make to your neural pathways and brain.
Mental Health Risks
Each time you consume MDMA, you get a sense of euphoria and high. Conversely, it also means that each time the effects of the drug wear off, you come crashing down. Over time, your body can get used to the high levels of euphoria the drug brings with it, and the period of low can turn into severe depression and anxiety. This cycle is also what leads to abuse and dependence on MDMA.
Other effects of ecstasy use
The full extent of how MDMA affects our body and mind isn’t yet known. However, some other MDMA effects that have been highlighted include decreased appetite, thirst, and problems with the body’s temperature regulation. Consumption of MDMA can also result in risk behaviors as the drug lowers inhibition.
Addressing Misconceptions About MDMA and Ecstasy
The advent of the internet and popular culture has ensured that there are a lot of misconceptions about MDMA that have gained traction over the past few years. Unlike popular belief, the drug is not always pure or safe. In many cases, the substance is adulterated, especially in its street form, Ecstasy. The impure substances can have unintended effects on a person’s body and mind.
Debunking Myths
A common misconception about the drug is that it is safe to use and a harmless drug for parties. However, the drug is extremely dangerous, especially when combined with other unknown ingredients. Further, MDMA also brings with it a large risk of addiction and multiple physical health complications as well.
The Reality of MDMA Use
While movies, shows, and popular culture may highlight the positive effects of the substance, the reality is quite different. MDMA can cause a host of psychological and physiological issues within a person, leading to a lot of pain and distress. Knowing these side effects is crucial to making smart decisions.
What if I use other drugs or alcohol together with MDMA?
One of the biggest risks with MDMA is combining it with other substances. This is when the substance becomes extremely dangerous. There is little to no understanding of how it combines with other drugs and the effects they can have, so exercising extreme caution in such situations is the way to go.
Can I Become Dependent on MDMA?
MDMA brings with it a major risk of addiction. As the drug influences the neurotransmitters that regulate our mood and elevate them to higher levels, our brain becomes used to the higher levels of neurotransmitters being present. However, our body cannot produce the same effect naturally, necessitating continuous use of the substance to maintain the high.
Additionally, as time progresses, the brain adapts to heightened neurotransmitter levels, requiring individuals to ingest larger doses of the medication to achieve comparable effects. This, in essence, is the beginning of abuse and addiction in a person.
So, yes. A person can get addicted and dependent on MDMA, bringing a host of mental health issues, physical health problems, and socio-economic issues with it as well.
Managing and Mitigating Risks
The most important step in reducing risks associated with MDMA use is to stay aware of the side effects and drawbacks of the drug itself. Further, even if consumption happens, a person should ensure they are in an environment they feel safe and comfortable in, stay hydrated, and avoid mixing it with other drugs.
Harm Reduction Strategies
If a person has already begun using the substance, then harm reduction is the most important way forward. Firstly, testing the purity of the drug is a crucial step to ensure the person is safe. Not overdoing it and taking all the necessary precautions while consuming would be the smart thing to do as well.
Seeking Professional Help
If a person believes that they are facing issues with MDMA use or they believe they are facing a significant side effect, reaching out to a trained medical professional is incredibly important. They can assist you in navigating challenging situations and can aid in resolving rare emergency complications linked to MDMA.
How can I stop using MDMA?
As it is with most substances, quitting MDMA is not a very easy process. And no, it has nothing to do with your character or determination. Dependence on MDMA is something that affects a person on multiple levels. So, the key is to seek help from a mental health professional when changes in mood or well-being are detected.
Find help in fighting the Ecstasy effects with Anunitha Cadabams
At Cadabams Anunitha, we understand the nature of addiction and the problems it brings with it. Our professionals ensure that they create a treatment plan that is unique to you to ensure that we can help you with the problems you face. Reach out to our team today to begin recovery from MDMA dependence! If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabams Anunitha’s De-Addiction Centre can help you with its team of specialized experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.
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FAQ
1. What are the sustained effects of MDMA on the Human Brain?
Sustained use of MDMA can lead to permanent changes in brain chemistry. The drug particularly affects the serotonin system, resulting in mood, memory, and cognitive changes.
2. Is Ecstacy considered an Anti-Depressant?
Ecstasy (MDMA) is not considered an antidepressant in the usual sense. It's a psychoactive drug that has mood-enhancing effects. However, it lacks the stability and safety associated with prescribed antidepressants.
3. How can I stop using MDMA?
To stop using MDMA, gradually reduce usage and seek support from a trained medical professional. Further, counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups for emotional and psychological assistance could help a person in recovery.
4. What are the Long-Term Side Effects of MDMA Use?
Potential long-term consequences of MDMA use encompass neurotoxicity, cognitive impairments, memory difficulties, disrupted sleep patterns, and heightened vulnerability to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
