What is MDMA?
MDMA, also known as ecstasy or 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is an illegal drug which is both a stimulant and a psychedelic. Ecstasy acts as a form of an antidepressant by releasing the chemical serotonin. When this drug is taken, the user feels a sense of calm, and seems to experience a euphoric state of mind. The desire to be closer to others, self-confidence and feelings of empathy are common. This drug also has negative side effects, as do many drugs. Drug addictions facing so many are addressed at numerous drug treatment facilities throughout the country.
MDMA is also known as a club drug, drugs which are commonly used at bars, dance clubs and all-night raves. Approximately 20 to 40 minutes after taking ecstasy, this drug begins to take effect. 60 to 90 minutes after taking this drug, peak effects are experienced. In all, effects of MDMA last up to 5 hours. Drug effects typically have a negative impact on the body, because of this and the their common addictive nature drug rehab is available at numerous drug and alcohol rehab centers. Popular street names include ecstasy, X, Adam, roll and E.
This drug was first used as an appetite suppressant and then later in psychotherapy patients to encourage the sharing of feelings. Its use has since become illegal, as brain damage has been found to occur. In fact, many drug treatment facilities today treat the side effects of ecstasy use. The primary cause of death when using ecstasy is heatstroke (hyperthermia).
How is MDMA used?
MDMA is typically taken in the forms of pills, and is swallowed. Sometimes these pills are stamped with various symbols and underground brand names. These pills range in size from 60 to 120 mg.
This drug can be hidden in numerous ways. Pills can be hidden in tootsie rolls. When the tootsie rolls are warm, dealers place the pill inside and re-wrap them. Bags of Skittles, Pez dispensers and M&M containers are other common places ecstasy can be concealed. Tylenol capsules have also been known to be refilled with MDMA powder.
Signs/Symptoms of MDMA
Short-term signs of MDMA include:
- Poor sleep quality
- Exhilaration
- Dehydration
- Stomach sickness
- Tension in the muscles
- Heatstroke (hyperthermia)
- Desiring closeness with others
- Increased body temperature and heart rate
- Chills and sweating
- Blurry vision
- Clenching teeth
- Feelings of faintness
- Kidney or liver failure
- Temporarily increased energy and self-confidence
- Poor memory
- Rapid eye movement (REM)
Most of the symptoms of MDMA use are not enjoyable side effects nor are they healthy for the body. Drug rehab facilities are available to those who seek recovery from these and other drug abuse symptoms.
Effects of MDMA
Long-term effects associated with MDMA include:
- Brain damage, primarily linked to thought and memory
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Parkinson’s disease, due to the damage of neurons containing dopamine
- Depression
- Anxiety
The drug ecstasy is typically not an addictive drug, although there have been cases of compulsive use in which withdrawal symptoms resulted. Tolerance to MDMA use can be built up, causing an increase in dosage to achieve previous effects. Many drug rehab facilities across the country address drug abuse. In fact, numerous places, ranging from New York to California drug treatment centers, specifically treat people struggling with MDMA use.
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