Ecstasy is the street name for MDMA (3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). It is a synthetically produced psychoactive drug with a chemical structure similar to methamphetamine and hallucinogen mescaline. An illegal drug, MDMA acts as both a psychedelic and a stimulant, producing an effect of high energy with distortions in time and perception. It also causes heightened pleasure from tactile experiences. Previously, MDMA was famous as a party drug and was available at raves and social get-togethers, however, now it is used by a broader range of people, who refer to it as ecstasy or molly.
People take MDMA in the form of a tablet or capsule, while some swallow it in the liquid form and others use it by snorting. Molly or molecular, which usually means a pure crystalline form of MDMA, is usually sold in the capsule form. Nevertheless, people purchasing capsules or the powder form of the drug may get adulterated versions laced with bath salts. Additionally, to increase its potency, some people combine it with substances like alcohol or marijuana.
Effects of MDMA on Brain
MDMA enhances the activity of three brain chemicals, namely:
- Norepinephrine – Which increases blood pressure and heart rate, therefore, it is particularly risky for people with disorders of the heart and blood vessels.
- Dopamine – Which leads to enhanced activity and energy levels, acts on the reward system, and reinforces behaviors
- Serotonin – Which produces changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and additional functions. This also affects the production of hormones triggering trust and arousal. When large amounts of serotonin are released, it elevates the mood of the users, making them empathetic, leading to perceived emotional intimacy.
In addition, it also causes nausea, sweating, chills, blurred vision, involuntary teeth clenching, and muscle cramping. The effects of MDMA last from 3 to 6 hours. Some users take a second dose when the effects start wearing off. Moderate intake of the drug leads to the following changes over the course of a week:
- Depression
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Impulsiveness
- Decreased appetite
- Decreased pleasure and interest in sex
Some of these effects may also be caused due to the combined intake of MDMA with other drugs like marijuana. MDMA can increase the body temperature because of which the organs like heart, kidney and liver may fail. Further, since MDMA can lead to trust and hence intimacy issues, its use with drugs like sildenafil (Viagra®) can cause unsafe sexual practices leading to transmitting and contracting of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.
Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction at Invictus Health Group
Getting substance abuse treatment for ecstasy addiction is important as it can affect the professional as well as personal life of a person, if delayed or left untreated. At Invictus Health Group, we have partnered with centers that have skilled teams of professionals dealing with this type of addiction.
The substance abuse treatment commences with a detox and also has brain training and restoration components. Their rehabilitation programs use medically-assisted detox, combined with medications and alternative and experiential therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help the patients achieve long-term drug recovery.
For more information about ecstasy addiction treatment programs, call our 24/7 helpline 866-548-0190. You can chat online with a representative for further assistance.
