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Marijuana is among the most commonly used substances in the United States, especially as legal use continues to become more widespread. Around 15 percent of the adult population smokes pot, a statistic that rises to 19 percent among those 18 to 34.
Marijuana is also increasingly found in combination with other drugs. For many who use marijuana recreationally and choose to blend it with other substances, Ecstasy, also referred to as MDMA or molly, is a popular choice. This is particularly true for those who like to use drugs while at parties, clubs or raves.
While seemingly innocuous, the combination of marijuana and Ecstasy has the potential to be very dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Understanding the side effects and dangers of taking these drugs independently and together can empower people to make informed decisions.
What Is Marijuana?
Definition and Composition
Marijuana is a plant found organically in nature that can be smoked or ingested via edibles. When in the body, it often produces a relaxed and euphoric sensation. Many people who use marijuana do so to minimize stress.
THC, the colloquial term for tetrahydrocannabinol and one of the primary cannabinoids in marijuana, enters the bloodstream after consumption, either through the lungs or the stomach. Marijuana also contains cannabidiol, or CBD. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t cause a high, but it interacts with the body’s neuroreceptors. It acts as a pain reliever and can help to regulate the user’s mood, alleviate stress and anxiety and help them sleep.
While people typically use natural marijuana, synthetic marijuana is also available. This version of the substance is manufactured in a lab using manmade chemicals designed to mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids. Although natural marijuana is subject to various regulations and quality control, synthetic marijuana is largely unregulated. As a result, its effects can be much more intense and unpredictable, and it’s associated with increased health risks such as seizures, heart problems and death.
Common Effects of Marijuana Use
Marijuana brings a range of desirable and undesirable physical effects, including:
- Pain relief
- Fatigue
- Increased hunger
- Lightheadedness
- Dry mouth and dry eyes
- Increased heart rate
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
Along with these physical side effects, those who use marijuana may experience a variety of psychological effects, such as:
- A sense of euphoria
- Relaxation
- Enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities
- Changes in anxiety levels
- Psychosis
- Depression
- Reduced motivation
The effects of marijuana can vary considerably from person to person. For example, one person might experience reduced anxiety levels, while another experiences a significant increase. Similarly, marijuana may effectively treat nausea and vomiting in some but cause stomach upset in others.
Currently, 47 states and three U.S. territories allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes, and 38 states have comprehensive medical marijuana programs. In Florida, those who qualify for and obtain a Medical Marijuana ID Card can use medical marijuana for approved conditions such as cancer, chronic seizures, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.
Laws regarding medical and recreational marijuana use differ from state to state. Before using marijuana for any purpose, an individual should be sure to understand their local laws, as well as the fines and jail time that may result from illegal use.
What is Ecstasy?
Definition and Composition
Unlike marijuana, which is primarily used to relax and unwind in low-key settings, MDMA, also called Ecstasy, E or molly, is a party drug. It’s most common among young people, like college students and those in their early to mid-twenties, and it’s typically consumed at nightclubs, parties and raves.
Ecstasy is chemically similar to stimulants and hallucinogens. It increases the activity of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, creating a mood-enhancing effect. It comes in several forms, including tablets, gel capsules, powder, crystal and liquid. These forms vary in purity and potency, making it important for individuals to be cautious and informed about what they’re using.
Common Effects of Ecstasy Use
Some common physical effects of using Ecstasy include:
- An increased heart rate
- Muscle tension and involuntary jaw clenching
- Nausea
- Excessive sweating
- Body chills
Ecstasy also produces a variety of psychological effects, such as:
- Increased sociability
- Euphoria
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
Soon after taking Ecstasy, an individual experiences an increased risk of dehydration, hyperthermia and electrolyte imbalance, which can be dangerous. With prolonged use, the individual can develop memory problems, cognitive impairment, mood disorders and brain damage.
The Effects of Combining Marijuana and Ecstasy
According to a 2007 study, as many as 98% of people who use Ecstasy also take marijuana. Unfortunately, the way these drugs interact with one another produces different interactions than when they’re used separately, increasing the risk of dangerous complications.
How the Substances Interact
THC and MDMA enhance each other’s effects, but the results are inconsistent. Some people experience a heightened sense of euphoria while others have an altered perception of reality. Both substances negatively impact cognitive functioning, impairing the individual’s ability to think clearly and remember events that took place while under the influence of these drugs. The combination can also lead to increased psychological side effects, including paranoia and anxiety.
Taking marijuana and Ecstasy together also brings some potentially dangerous physiological side effects. When using Ecstasy, individuals tend to increase their physical activity and sweat more, and they may become very thirsty. Combined with marijuana, which causes dry mouth, the individual becomes more at risk of overhydrating. In some cases, this can be life-threatening.
Positive Perceptions and Common Motives
People combine marijuana and Ecstasy for several reasons. Both are often used in social settings such as parties and clubs, so it makes sense that they’d be taken together. In some cases, individuals intentionally take them together to balance out the negative effects of coming down from Ecstasy or to increase the sense of euphoria both drugs can provide. Other times, simple curiosity leads to combining these substances.
Because of practical and ethical reasons, there’s not much research on how marijuana and ecstasy interact. Often, people who use both also have other substances like cocaine and alcohol in their system, making it hard to see the effects of just marijuana and ecstasy together.
However, reported experiences indicate that the outcome of combining marijuana and MDMA is unpredictable, with some experiencing enhanced euphoria and a reduced comedown while others experience extreme anxiety and vivid hallucinations.
Safety Considerations and Harm Reduction
Combining marijuana and Ecstasy can be risky, so individuals should consider safety and harm-reduction strategies.
Recognizing the Signs of Overuse or Distress
When using these substances together, it’s important to be aware of the early warning signs and symptoms of complications. These include:
- Severe dehydration
- Hyperthermia symptoms, such as excessive sweating and skin that’s hot to the touch
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Intense feelings of anxiety or paranoia
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Uncharacteristic aggression or irritability
- Unresponsiveness
If someone begins exhibiting these symptoms, it’s important to get medical help right away.
Strategies for Reducing Risks
For those who intend to use marijuana and Ecstasy together, it’s important to stay mindful of personal safety and well-being. Reduce the risk of harm by following a few guidelines:
- Start with low doses
- Drink electrolyte drinks to satisfy thirst while maintaining the body’s mineral balance
- Have a sober friend nearby who can provide assistance if necessary
- Ensure you’re in a safe setting with people you trust
- Know where the drugs came from to ensure their purity
- Give the body a chance to rest and recover after combining substances
Conclusion
While neither marijuana nor Ecstasy are associated with a high risk of addiction, they can have a serious long-term impact on an individual’s health. This is especially true when they’re used together. By using these drugs simultaneously, users may have a heightened sense of euphoria and a reduced comedown, making it a popular combination. However, some experience adverse reactions that range from disturbing and uncomfortable to life-threatening.
If you find that you rely on these or other drugs to relax in social settings, cope with job stress or manage trauma, we’re here to help. Our mental health care specialists provide judgment-free support and guidance, helping you get to the root of a problem, develop healthy coping strategies and pursuing sobriety.
At FHE Health, our professional treatment team is prepared to address addiction issues of all kinds, including dependency issues related to marijuana and ecstasy. Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs are available. Contact us today to learn more.
