One of the most common recreational drugs is MDMA. One of the reasons that MDMA is so dangerous is because people mistakenly believe that it isn’t addictive. This club drug, however, can have a disastrous impact on individuals lives. If you’re wondering, “What is MDMA?” then find out more below.
What is MDMA?
The full name of MDMA is 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. However, most people know it as MDMA, Molly, E or ecstasy. This is a synthetic drug and an upper. This means it’s a stimulant drug that people often choose to take to improve energy levels.
Most people associate MDMA with late-night events, particularly raves. People take MDMA for effects like euphoria, warmth, and changes to time and physical sensation.
Users consume this drug in a variety of ways. Typically, MDMA comes in a tablet or pill form and is often a bright color. While less common, some users snort MDMA as a powder or even mix it with liquid and consume it like a shot.
How MDMA Impacts the Brain
MDMA use results in the release of three chemicals in the brain. Serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine all play a role in the short and long-term effects of MDMA.
The release of norepinephrine is one of the most dangerous aspects of recreational drug use. Norepinephrine speeds up a lot of the body’s primary functions. Taking MDMA can lead to a faster heart rate and increased blood pressure.
The drug that makes users feel energetic is dopamine. After taking MDMA, users may no longer feel tired at all, and dopamine is responsible for that.
The third chemical that MDMA releases in the brain is serotonin. This chemical is responsible for the euphoric feeling that users look for in MDMA. It may create emotional warmth and good feelings among users.
Negative Side Effects of MDMA
The short-term effects of MDMA may be desirable among users, but the negative consequences certainly aren’t. The flood of dopamine and serotonin, for example, can damage the neurotransmitters in the brain. This can result in the numbing of other sources of pleasure, and it can lead to depression or anxiety over time.
In the short-term, MDMA leads to symptoms such as muscle cramping, nausea, teeth clenching and blurred vision. Some users may also experience chills or severe dehydration.
The long-term effects of MDMA may include mental health disorders, decreased appetite, memory loss, organ failure and a decrease in cognitive function.
What is MDMA Treatment Like?
Ecstasy rehab treatment is critical for those ready to break free from MDMA addiction. The best recovery services offer a range of treatment methods that include:
- Group therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Experiential therapy
- Holistic approaches to recovery
MDMA is more than just a club drug: It’s highly addictive and dangerous to your health. To recover from addiction effectively, consider quality rehab at Pinnacle Peak Recovery in Scottsdale, Arizona. Call 866-377-4761 to take the next step and overcome your addiction.