What is MDMA-Ecstasy?
MDMA was originally popular in the nightclub scene and in times dance parties (“raves”), but the medication now affects a wider selection of individuals who commonly call the drug Ecstasy or Molly.
How do people use MDMA?
Individuals using MDMA usually take it as a capsule or tablet, though some swallow it in liquid form or snort the powder. The popular nickname Molly (slang for “molecular”) often refers to the allegedly “pure” translucent powder form of MDMA, usually sold in capsules. However, people who buy powder or capsules sold as Molly frequently actually become other drugs like artificial cathinones (“bath salts”) rather
Many people today take MDMA in combination with other drugs like alcohol or marijuana.
How can MDMA affect the mind?
MDMA increases the action of three brain chemicals:-
- Dopamine–triggers a surge in euphoria and increased energy/activity
- Norepinephrine–raises heart rate and blood pressure, which can be especially risky for individuals with heart and blood vessel problems
- Serotonin–affects mood, appetite, sleep, and other purposes. Additionally, it triggers hormones which affect sexual stimulation and trust. The release of considerable quantities of dopamine likely causes the psychological closeness, elevated mood, and compassion felt by people who use MDMA.
Other health effects include:
- nausea
- muscle cramping
- involuntary teeth clenching
- blurry vision
- chills
- sweating
MDMA’s effects last about 3 to 6 months, although a lot of users take another dose because the effects of the initial dose start to fade. Over the course of the week after moderate use of this drug, someone might experience:
- irritability
- impulsiveness and aggression
- melancholy
- sleep difficulties
- anxiety
- memory and attention problems
- decreased appetite
- diminished interest in and pleasure from sex
It is possible that some of the effects might be attributed to the joint use of MDMA with other drugs, particularly marijuana. This may result in a spike in body temperature which may occasionally lead to kidney, liver, or heart failure or even death.
Additionally, because MDMA can promote trust and closeness, its use–especially combined with sildenafil (Viagra®)–can encourage unsafe sexual behaviour.
Additional Risk of MDMA
Adding to MDMA’s dangers is that tablets, capsules, or powders sold as Ecstasy and allegedly “pure” Molly may contain other medications instead of or along with MDMA. Much of the Molly captured by the authorities comprises additives like cocaine, ketamine, methamphetamine, over-the-counter cough medication, or synthetic cathinones (“bath salts”). These substances could be extremely dangerous if the individual doesn’t know what he or she’s taking. They might also be dangerous when combined with MDMA. Individuals who intentionally or unknowingly combine such a combination with other substances, such as alcohol and marijuana, may be placing themselves at even higher risk for harmful health consequences.
Research results change on whether MDMA is addictive. Experiments have shown that animals will self-administer MDMA–an important indicator of a drug’s abuse possible–although to a lesser degree than some other drugs like cocaine.
Many folks report signs of dependence, including the following withdrawal symptoms:-
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
- melancholy
- difficulty concentrating
Does MDMA Have Value in Treatment?
MDMA was utilised at the 1970s as an aid in psychotherapy (mental disorder treatment using “talk therapy”). The medication did not have the support of clinical trials (studies with people) or consent from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In 1985, The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration branded MDMA as an illegal drug with no known medicinal usage. Some researchers remain interested in its value in psychotherapy when given to patients under closely controlled conditions. MDMA is now in clinical trials as a potential treatment aid for post-traumatic anxiety disorder and anxiety in terminally ill patients, and for social stress in autistic adults.
How do people get treatment for dependence on MDMA?
There are no specific medical treatments for MDMA addiction. Some individuals seeking treatment for MDMA dependence have found behavioral treatment to be helpful. Scientists need more study to ascertain how successful this treatment option is for dependence to MDMA.