3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)—widely known by its street names Ecstasy or Molly—is a popular but illegal “club drug” known for its hallucinogenic and stimulant effects. Fortunately, you or a struggling loved one don’t need to live with MDMA addiction. There are many options for substance abuse treatment in New Jersey at BlueCrest Recovery. To learn more about our MDMA addiction treatment program in New Jersey, contact BlueCrest Recovery today at 888.292.9652.
What Is MDMA?
MDMA is a synthetic drug manufactured in illegal labs and mainly smuggled into the U.S. from Canada and the Netherlands. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies MDMA as a Schedule 1 drug. It is not approved for any use, even under medical supervision.
MDMA is synthetically produced from the oil contained in the bark of the sassafras tree. The oil is distilled to produce pure safrole, the main ingredient in MDMA. Safrole was banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1960 as potentially carcinogenic. The FDA also labeled sassafras bark and oil as unsafe for human consumption and banned them for use as food additives.
When used over time, MDMA damages brain neurons that regulate serotonin, a naturally occurring chemical that impacts memory and other functions. In addition to the potential for memory problems and carcinogenic effects, MDMA may contain unknown deadly additives. Even in its pure form, the drug can be dangerous. Because it’s an illegal, unregulated drug, it’s also impossible to know if it contains added substances.
How Does MDMA Affect the Body?
MDMA has been shown to increase levels of three brain chemicals: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemicals affect various activities and vital functions of the body. Serotonin has been shown to increase feelings of well-being and is often called the “feel good” chemical. Dopamine interacts with the pleasure and reward system of the brain, reinforcing activities that heighten feelings of enjoyment. Norepinephrine increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to muscles.
Typically, the effects of MDMA take about 30 minutes to take effect and last between 3 and 6 hours. Even days after moderate drug use, negative side effects, similar to withdrawal symptoms, may be experienced. Adverse effects of MDMA may include:
- Irritability
- Impulsiveness and aggression
- Depression
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety
- Memory and attention problems
- Decreased appetite
- Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
As MDMA often contains other drugs or is used concurrently with alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs, some of these effects may be impacted by those substances. Mixing these drugs may contribute to overheating, dehydration, and heart failure.
Because the drug is frequently used in crowded, hot dance clubs by people who are expending high energy levels, often without sufficient hydration, MDMA use can lead to severe dehydration. Prolonged dehydration may damage the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to liver, kidney, and cardiovascular failure, seizures, brain damage, and death.
Can you Overdose on MDMA?
An overdose occurs when an individual takes a toxic substance or a dangerously high drug dose, intentionally or unintentionally, and may lead to death. Although individuals are unlikely to overdose on MDMA alone, it is possible. Difficulty in eliminating the drug from the body also increases the risk of overdose or other adverse side effects.
When MDMA is combined with alcohol, cocaine, dextromethorphan, or certain other substances, the risk of overdose increases. MDMA and alcohol are frequently consumed together, and the combination blurs the sensation of impairment. Not only does this increase the risk of a motor vehicle or other accidents, but it also increases the risk of alcohol poisoning.
Find MDMA Addiction Treatment in New Jersey at BlueCrest Recovery
BlueCrest Recovery’s MDMA rehab center is conveniently based out of New Jersey. It offers safe, comfortable, and highly effective outpatient and intensive treatment programs for those dependent on MDMA or other substances.
Combining therapeutic techniques with a unique holistic approach, our facility’s highly trained, compassionate staff works with you to heal your mind, body, and health. Learn more about our approach to MDMA addiction treatment, and contact BlueCrest Recovery today at 888.292.9652 for help taking the first step toward living a happy, sober life.
