Introduction
Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a synthetic drug that has been around since the 1980s. It’s often found in powder, pill, or capsule form, and is popular among club-goers and concert-goers as it produces strong feelings of euphoria and energy. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular as a “party drug”. Despite its popularity, there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding ecstasy. In this blog post, we will be discussing what ecstasy is, its effects and withdrawal symptoms, and the potential risks of using this drug.
Definition of ecstasy
Ecstasy, also known as 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant and hallucinogenic. It is known as a “party drug” because of its popularity among the club scene and is usually taken in pill form. MDMA has similar effects to those of other stimulants such as cocaine and amphetamines. It can produce feelings of increased energy, euphoria, emotional warmth, and distortions in time and perception. The drug can also cause users to become more talkative, sociable, and less inhibited in social situations. However, there are risks associated with ecstasy use, including agitation, dehydration, confusion, and insomnia.
How ecstasy (MDMA) is used
MDMA was originally developed in Germany. Today, ecstasy is generally made in illegal laboratories, which means the person taking it has no idea if the dose will be strong or weak, or even if it will contain any MDMA at all.
It is possible for pills sold as ecstasy tablets to contain little or no MDMA. They may contain other chemicals (such as amphetamines, , PMMA or ), or ‘fillers’ (such as household products) which may have unexpected or dangerous side effects.
Ecstasy usually comes as pills (capsules or tablets), but can come as a powder or crystal. Most people take pills, but some may snort (inhaled through the nose), smoke or inject ecstasy.
How ecstasy (MDMA) works
When we are stressed or under threat, the central nervous system readies us for physical action and our bodies react in response. This may include the release of adrenalin and other stress hormones. Key functions like heart rate and blood pressure may increase, redirecting blood flow into the muscles and away from the gut.
As a nervous system stimulant, ecstasy works by prompting the brain to initiate this ‘fight or flight’ response and the user feels refreshed by a burst of energy.
Ecstasy can distort your experience of reality by influencing perceptions of sight and sound.
Ecstasy is renowned for the feelings of peace and love it invokes. This could be caused by an elevation in brain chemicals, or neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and dopamine).
Risks of ecstasy (MDMA)
People with certain conditions – such as epilepsy, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or mood or psychiatric disorders – are at greater risk of harm if they take ecstasy.
Ecstasy can be dangerous if it is mixed with other drugs including alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, ice and some prescription medications (such as antidepressants).
Short-term effects of ecstasy
Ecstasy, also known as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), is a psychoactive drug that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This synthetic substance produces strong feelings of euphoria, increased energy and emotional warmth. It also causes distortions in time perception, an altered sense of self, enhanced empathy and heightened senses.
These effects can last for several hours and may include some physical side effects as well. These can include nausea, chills, sweating, tremors, muscle cramping and blurred vision. There is also an increased risk of dehydration due to the fact that MDMA increases body temperature and physical activity.
Other short-term effects of ecstasy include increased heart rate, blood pressure and respiration. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, panic or paranoia. Some users also experience depression or other mental health issues after taking the drug.
In addition to these physical and psychological effects, ecstasy can lead to impaired judgment and risky behavior. This can include participating in dangerous activities such as driving while intoxicated, using other drugs or engaging in unprotected sex. It is important to note that these risks are greatly increased when mixing ecstasy with alcohol or other drugs.
Long-term effects of ecstasy (MDMA)
There has been little research on the long-term effects of taking ecstasy. Studies suggest that problems may include:
- Permanent damage to the brain cells that make the neurotransmitter serotonin – which is involved in mood regulation, body temperature, appetite and sex drive
- Liver damage
- Memory and concentration problems
- Colds or flu
- Depression
- Risk of HIV, hepatitis, blood poisoning or skin abscesses – if ecstasy is injected using shared needles
- Risk of unprotected sex, which increases the chance of contracting sexually transmissible infections (STIs)
- Increased need to use other drugs (such as benzodiazepines, alcohol or cannabis) to balance the side effects of ecstasy.
Withdrawal symptoms from ecstasy
Ecstasy is a powerful drug that can produce both physical and psychological dependence. When an individual stops using ecstasy, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, including but not limited to:
• Anxiety: This may include feelings of panic, restlessness, or nervousness.
• Depersonalization: The feeling of being outside of yourself and disconnected from your own body and the world around you.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Loss of appetite: This can lead to significant weight loss.
• Fatigue: Extreme exhaustion and lack of energy.
• Cravings: Intense urges to use ecstasy again.
• Depression: Feeling sad, hopeless, and empty.
• Agitation: Feeling jumpy, irritable, and on edge.
• Confusion: Feeling like you are in a fog and have difficulty thinking clearly.
• Memory problems: Difficulty focusing and remembering things.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these withdrawal symptoms from ecstasy, it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Withdrawal symptoms can be difficult to manage without professional help. Treatment may include medications to help manage symptoms, counseling to address any underlying issues, and lifestyle changes to promote healthy behaviors.
Treatment for ecstasy (MDMA) misuse
Treatment options for drug use include:
- Detoxification
- Individual counselling
- Group therapy.
Peer support – or talking to someone who has been in the same situation – can also be helpful.
See your doctor for information and referral or contact an alcohol and other drug service in your area.
