Ecstasy is the most common name for MDMA. It is a synthetic psychoactive drug that produces both stimulant and psychedelic effects. Because of this it is known as a rave drug. It can create altered states conducive to enjoying long dance parties accompanied by live music and light shows. Ecstasy users experience distortions in time and perceptions as well as a heightened enjoyment of tactile sensations. Because of these associations, ecstasy is sometimes viewed as a soft or safe party drug, but taking it entails some serious risks.
The Effects of Ecstasy
Ecstasy does not have a reputation for being very addictive, however, surveys take of Ecstasy users matched up with traditional markers for addictive traits pretty solidly, including considerable withdrawal symptoms including
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Loss of concentration
- Build up of tolerance from repeated use
Chronic users perform below average on cognitive and memory tasks. There is evidence of degradation of neurological processes in test animals, though that’s never been proven in humans. A common result of ecstasy use is inability to regulate body temperature, creating risk of heat stroke and in extreme cases damage to internal organs from hyperthermia. Another side effect is clenched muscles, particularly in the neck and jaw, often resulting in teeth grinding.
Will The Real MDMA Please Stand UP
One of the greatest dangers of Ecstasy however is being able to recognize that it is indeed Ecstasy, MDMA. Very few pills that are presented as Ecstasy are pure MDMA – some are related but chemically divergent drugs like PMA and MDA that carry greater health risks. Sometimes they are cut with entirely different substances like ephedrine, ketamine, or methamphetamine, which each carry their own risks. These unknown factors create exponential risks as a result of interactions and complications between the drugs and the user. Sometimes a drug sold as ecstasy doesn’t contain any MDMA at all.
If you are struggling with substance abuse as well as an Ecstasy habit, call FHE Health at (833) 596-3502 to learn more about our affordable rehab. Florida drug programs here at FHE and our Florida alcohol detox programs offer the highest quality of care. Our clinicians are ready to hear your story. Call us today.
