Its most dangerous consequence is hyperthermia — a sudden and severe rise in body temperature. This is made more likely by overexerting yourself physically while on ecstasy, for example, by dancing all night at a rave or in other hot environments. This spike in body temperature can lead to the failure of multiple organs, including the kidney and liver, as well as the failure of your cardiovascular system and muscle breakdown. Adding alcohol or other drugs to the mix adds to the dangers of overdose.

MDMA: What you need to know about Molly

Some of the effects of MDMA, such as its control over serotonin and influence on learning pathways in the brain, are exactly what makes it so promising as a tool for therapeutic use. But while there are rules and regulations for prescription medications, there are no safety standards in place for the production of recreational drugs like MDMA. Because of this, there’s a risk that you could be buying MDMA that’s contaminated ― or even a different drug altogether. One thing to note, however, is that many of the studies included in this review were animal studies, not human studies. So, we can’t necessarily apply these results to humans without doing more research first. According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, roughly 2.2 million people reported using MDMA at least once over the past 12 months.

The risks

MDMA use has also been linked to heightened sensory perception. Treatment for stimulant use disorder can occur in different settings (inpatient or outpatient) and the recovery journey will involve various therapeutic approaches. Support groups are also essential in maintaining long-term sobriety. Due to the altered sense of reality due to MDMA use, people who have taken it can make dangerous decisions without concern that these could lead to negative consequences. Animal studies show that MDMA in moderate to high doses can damage nerve cells in the brain.

Marijuana and hallucinogen use among young adults reached all time-high in 2021

Like with pills, drinking too much (including water) can also be dangerous. Users should sip no more than a pint of water or non-alcoholic drink every hour. Researchers’ understanding of MDMA toxicity has evolved over time. While the drug was initially thought to cause immediate dependence and pose a high risk to public health, current studies no longer indicate for sure that MDMA can cause addiction. Prolonged or heavy MDMA use can result in persistent changes in your brain’s serotonin system. Regular overuse of MDMA use has been linked to confusion, depression, anxiety, paranoia, and difficulties with memory and attention.

• According to a 2021 survey by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 0.8% of the U.S. population over the age of 12 reported using this drug in the previous 12 months.
• Educate yourself, talk with your doctor, and reach out to local or virtual organizations that can provide support for addiction.
• The federal survey found that ecstasy was most popular among adults aged 26 and older.
• It is also available as a powder and is sometimes snorted, taken as a liquid, and it is occasionally smoked but rarely injected.
• So, we can’t necessarily apply these results to humans without doing more research first.

A 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health of people aged 12 or older showed that almost 2.2 million people said they used ecstasy in 2023, or nearly 1% of people surveyed. More than 22 million of those surveyed said they have tried ecstasy at some point in their lives. Ecstasy is a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, which means you could face jail time if caught in possession of this drug.

A small study published in The Lancet Psychiatry looked at the use of MDMA in patients molly mdma suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Ecstasy (MDMA) is designated as Schedule I substance by the DEA. Exploration of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD in Australia, covering the therapeutic benefits, historical use, and the process of MDMA aiding psychotherapy. If you choose to take ecstasy, use it with as much precaution as possible.

• In addition to the high you get from ecstasy, the drug also causes many unpleasant and potentially dangerous side effects that affect your mind and your body.
• Ecstasy is a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, which means you could face jail time if caught in possession of this drug.
• The often-added impurities, in combination with the physical rigor of an all-night dance party experience, make taking any form of MDMA significantly dangerous.
• In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration granted MDMA breakthrough therapy status due to the preliminary evidence of its efficacy in the treatment of PTSD.
• Educate yourself and your friends about the safety tips for ecstasy use to reduce unwanted health problems.

Detection in body fluids

Before calling, it may help to create a list of questions to ask. It’s always a good idea to be as prepared as possible before you choose a rehab. If you have questions about health insurance, payment plans, types of therapy used, or the average length of a rehab stay, make sure to discuss these with any potential programs.