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Therapy

ECSTASY/MDMA

ECSTASY/MDMA

Our Experience 

We have experience with ecstasy, also known as MDMA. The drug was developed by a German pharmaceutical company in 1912. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, some psychologists believed that it enhanced communication and improved insights with patients, even though the FDA had not conducted trials or approved it for such purposes. In 1985, the DEA declared an emergency ban on MDMA and placed it on the list of Schedule I drugs, which are deemed illegal and have no medical value to patients. Despite this, it gained popularity as a recreational drug in the 1990s and has remained popular in certain sub-sections of the country and age groups.

WHAT IS ECSTASY/MDMA?

Ecstasy, also commonly known by its slang name “molly,” is a synthetic drug primarily known for its hallucinogenic and stimulant effects. Let’s delve into the details:

  1. Chemical Name: Ecstasy’s chemical name is 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).

  2. Effects:

    • Increased Energy: Ecstasy imparts feelings of heightened energy.

    • Pleasure: Users often experience intense pleasure.

    • Emotional Warmth: It fosters emotional warmth and empathy.

    • Distorted Sensory and Time Perception: Ecstasy can alter how users perceive their surroundings and the passage of time.​

  3. Duration: The effects of MDMA typically last for three to six hours, but in some cases, side effects may persist for up to a week or more, especially if MDMA is mixed with other drugs like marijuana.

  4. Therapeutic Uses (Off-Label): While ecstasy is mainly known as a recreational drug, it was explored as a therapeutic agent in the 1970s. Some psychotherapists believed it could enhance empathy and understanding among individuals.

 

Remember that ecstasy’s purity can vary, and it may contain additives or contaminants such as methamphetamine, caffeine, ephedrine, or ketamine.

WHAT DOES ECSTASY LOOK LIKE?

Ecstasy/MDMA can be found/made in many forms:

  • Tablets: Ecstasy is typically found in tablet form, often imprinted with graphic designs or commercial logos.

  • Powder (Molly): Molly, a popular nickname for ecstasy, refers to the supposedly “pure” crystalline powder form of MDMA. However, molly is often combined with other substances like synthetic cathinone (bath salts).

EFFECTS OF ECSTASY/MDMA

Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a recreational drug that gained popularity in club scenes during the 1980s. Let’s explore its effects:

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  1. Physical Effects:

    • Increased heart rate and blood pressure

    • Elevated body temperature (hyperthermia)

    • Muscle tension

    • Nausea

    • Feeling faint

  2. Mental and Behavioral Effects:

    • Increased energy

    • Changes in perceptions of reality (hallucinogenic effects)

    • Anxiety

    • Attention problems

    • Confusion

    • Decreased libido

    • Depression

    • Impulsiveness

    • Insomnia

    • Irritability

    • Memory problems

    • Reduced appetite

  3. Ecstasy Timeline:

  4. Risks and Serious Side Effects:

    • Ecstasy can cause life-threatening health effects, including:

      • High blood pressure.

      • Increased heartbeat.

      • Convulsions.

      • Floating sensations.

      • Blurred vision.

      • Vomiting.

      • Heart attack

REGULAR MDMA USE

Regular use of Ecstasy (MDMA) can have serious consequences for both physical and mental health. Here are some important points to consider:

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  1. Tolerance and Dependence:

    • Regular use of ecstasy can lead to tolerance, where the drug becomes less effective over time. As a result, users may increase their dosage to achieve the desired effects.

    • Psychological dependence can also occur, where individuals feel compelled to use the drug repeatedly.

  2. Physical Health Risks:

    • Neurotoxicity: Ecstasy can damage serotonin-producing neurons in the brain, potentially leading to long-term mood disturbances and memory problems.

    • Dehydration: Ecstasy increases body temperature, leading to excessive sweating and dehydration.

    • Heatstroke: Prolonged dancing or physical activity while on ecstasy can cause dangerous overheating.

    • Cardiovascular Issues: Increased heart rate and blood pressure can strain the cardiovascular system.

    • Hyponatremia: Ecstasy users may drink excessive water, leading to low sodium levels in the blood.

  3. Mental Health Risks:

    • Depression: Ecstasy use can deplete serotonin levels, contributing to feelings of depression.

    • Anxiety: Some users experience anxiety or panic attacks.

    • Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns are common.

    • Memory and Cognitive Impairment: Regular use may affect memory and cognitive function.

  4. Legal and Social Risks:

    • Ecstasy is illegal in many countries, and possession or distribution can result in legal consequences.

    • Socially, regular use can strain relationships and impact work or academic performance.

  5. Harm Reduction Strategies:

    • Moderation: Avoid frequent use to minimize risks.

    • Stay Hydrated: Drink water but avoid excessive intake.

    • Test Substances: Ensure the purity of ecstasy pills by using testing kits.

    • Avoid Mixing Drugs: Combining ecstasy with other substances increases risks.

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