DrugFactsMDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)

What is MDMA?
3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) is a
synthetic drug that alters mood and perception (awareness
of surrounding objects and conditions). It is chemically
similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens, producing
feelings of increased energy, pleasure, emotional warmth,
and distorted sensory and time perception.
MDMA was initially popular in the nightclub scene and at allnight dance parties ("raves"), but the drug now affects a
broader range of people who more commonly call the drug
Ecstasy or Molly.
How do people use MDMA?
People who use MDMA usually take it as a capsule or tablet,
though some swallow it in liquid form or snort the powder. The popular nickname Molly (slang
for "molecular") often refers to the supposedly "pure" crystalline powder form of MDMA, usually
sold in capsules. However, people who purchase powder or capsules sold as Molly often
actually get other drugs such as synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") instead (see "Added Risk of
MDMA").
Some people take MDMA in combination with other drugs such as alcohol or marijuana.
How does MDMA affect the brain?
MDMA increases the activity of three brain chemicals:
Dopaminecauses a surge in euphoria and increased energy/activity
Norepinephrineincreases heart rate and blood pressure, which are particularly risky for people
with heart and blood vessel problems
Serotoninaffects mood, appetite, sleep, and other functions. It also triggers hormones that
affect sexual arousal and trust. The release of large amounts of serotonin likely causes
the emotional closeness, elevated mood, and empathy felt by those who use MDMA.
Other health effects include:
nausea
muscle cramping
involuntary teeth clenching
blurred vision
chills
sweating
MDMA's effects last about 3 to 6 hours, although many users take a second dose as the effects
of the first dose begin to fade. Over the course of the week following moderate use of the drug,
a person may experience:
irritability
impulsiveness and aggression
depression
sleep problems
anxiety
memory and attention problems
decreased appetite
decreased interest in and pleasure from sex

It's possible that some of these effects may be due to the combined use of MDMA with other
drugs, especially marijuana.
What are other health effects of MDMA?
High doses of MDMA can affect the bodys ability to regulate temperature. This can lead to a
spike in body temperature that can occasionally result in liver, kidney, or heart failure or even
death.
In addition, because MDMA can promote trust and closeness, its useespecially combined with
sildenafil (Viagra)may encourage unsafe sexual behavior. This increases people's risk of
contracting or transmitting HIV/AIDS or hepatitis.
Added Risk of MDMA
Adding to MDMA's risks is that pills, capsules, or powders sold as Ecstasy and supposedly
"pure" Molly may contain other drugs instead of or in addition to MDMA. Much of the Molly
seized by the police contains additives such as cocaine, ketamine, methamphetamine, over-thecounter cough medicine, or synthetic cathinones ("bath salts"). These substances may be
extremely dangerous if the person does not know what he or she is taking. They may also be
dangerous when combined with MDMA. People who purposely or unknowingly combine such a
mixture with other substances, such as marijuana and alcohol, may be putting themselves at
even higher risk for harmful health effects.
Is MDMA addictive?
Research results vary on whether MDMA is addictive. Experiments have shown that animals will
self-administer MDMAan important indicator of a drugs abuse potentialalthough to a lesser
degree than some other drugs such as cocaine.
Some people report signs of addiction, including the following withdrawal symptoms:
fatigue
loss of appetite
depression
trouble concentrating
Does MDMA Have Value in Therapy?
MDMA was first used in the 1970s as an aid in psychotherapy (mental disorder treatment using
"talk therapy"). The drug didn't have the support of clinical trials (studies using humans) or
approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In 1985, The U.S. Drug Enforcement
Administration labeled MDMA as an illegal drug with no recognized medicinal use. Some
researchers remain interested in its value in psychotherapy when given to patients under
carefully controlled conditions. MDMA is currently in clinical trials as a possible treatment aid for
post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety in terminally ill patients, and for social anxiety in
autistic adults.
How can people get treatment for addiction to MDMA?
There are no specific medical treatments for MDMA addiction. Some people seeking treatment
for MDMA addiction have found behavioral therapy to be helpful. Scientists need more research
to determine how effective this treatment option is for addiction to MDMA.
Points to Remember
3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) is a synthetic drug that alters mood and
perception. It is chemically similar to stimulants and hallucinogens.
MDMA is commonly called Ecstasy or Molly.
People who use MDMA typically take it as a capsule or tablet. Many people take it in
combination with other drugs.

MDMA acts by increasing the activity of three brain chemicals: dopamine, norepinephrine, and
serotonin.
Effects include euphoria, increased energy, distorted perception, involuntary teeth clenching,
dangerously high body temperature, and depression.
Many people are unaware that Ecstasy and supposedly "pure" Molly also often contain not only
pure MDMA but other drugs that may be particularly dangerous when mixed with MDMA.
Research results vary on whether MDMA is addictive. Some people report signs of addiction.
Some people seeking treatment for MDMA addiction have found behavioral therapy to be
helpful. There are no specific medical treatments for MDMA addiction.
How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?
Detection Timetable Depends on Many Variables

Determining exactly how long MDMA is detectable in the body depends on many variables,
including which kind drug test is being used. MDMA - also known as Adam, Ecstasy, STP, XTC can be detected for a shorter time with some tests, but can be "visible" for up to three months in
other tests.
The timetable for detecting MDMA in the system is also dependent upon each individual's
metabolism, body mass, age, hydration level, physical activity, health conditions and other
factors, making it almost impossible to determine an exact time MDMA will show up on a drug
test.
The following is an estimated range of times, or detection windows, during which MDMA can be
detected by various testing methods:
How Long Does MDMA Show Up in Urine?
MDMA is detectable in a urine test for 2-5 days.
How Long Does MDMA Stay in the Blood?
A blood test will detect MDMA for up to 24 hours.
How Long Will MDMA Show Up in a Saliva Test?
A saliva test will detect MDMA from 1-5 days.
How Long Does MDMA Remain in Hair?
MDMA, like many other drugs, can be detected with a hair follicle drug test for up to 90 days.
How Does MDMA Build Up in the System?
The effects of MDMA usually last about 3-5 hours, but the half-life of the drug is closer to 8-9
hours. Therefore, users of MDMA may try to take more of the drug as the "high" begins to wear
off while the first dose is still in their system.

Although the "high" of MDMA use can diminish after 3-5 hours, the side-effects can last up to 24
hours including enhanced impulsivity and difficulty in maintaining attention during complex
tasks.
Effects of MDMA (Ecstasy or Molly)
Some of the effects of using MDMA can last even longer. Some users have reported the
following side-effects for up to a week after using the drug:
Irritability
Impulsiveness and aggression
Depression
Sleep problems
Anxiety
Memory and attention problems
Decreased appetite
Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
According to health officials, high doses of MDMA has been found to affect the body's ability to
regulate its internal temperature. Spikes in body temperature has resulted in some users
experiencing heart, kidney, and liver failure.
Increased body temperature has been linked to several deaths that resulted from MDMA use.
MDMA Usually Taken With Other Drugs
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, some of the above effects might be the result
of using MDMA with other drugs. Molly is most often used with alcohol and marijuana, according
to officials.
Another risk involved with the use of MDMA is many of the pills sold as Ecstasy have been
found to contain other substances. So-called "pure" Molly has been found to contain bath salts
and other synthetic carthinones, cocaine, methamphetamine,ketamine, and even over-thecounter cough medications.
When taken with alcohol, these additives can produce even greater health risk to MDMA users.
Other Dangers of MDMA Use
With only a single dose (56 mg) MDMA users have been found to exhibit an acceptance of
higher levels of risk, acute changes in cognitive performance, and impaired information
processing ability.
Therefore, driving while using MDMA is considered impaired driving.
Many states have passed zero tolerance laws regarding drugged driving. In those states, if you
are found to have any MDMA at all in your system, you could be charged with impaired driving.
How Long Does Ecstasy Stay in Your System?
Detection Timetable Depends on Many Variables
Determining exactly how long ecstasy is detectable
in the body depends on many variables, including
which kind drug test is being used. Ecstasy - also
known as Adam, STP, XTC - can be detected for a
shorter time with some tests, but can be "visible" for
up to three months in other tests.
The timetable for detecting ecstasy in the system is
also dependent upon each individual's metabolism,
body mass, age, hydration level, physical activity,
health conditions and other factors, making it almost
impossible to determine an exact time ecstasy will
show up on a drug test.

The following is an estimated range of times, or detection windows, during which ecstasy can be
detected by various testing methods:
How Long Does Ecstasy Show Up in Urine?
Ecstasy is detectable in a urine test for 2-5 days.
How Long Does Ecstasy Stay in the Blood?
A blood test will detect Ecstasy for up to 24 hours.
How Long Will Ecstasy Show Up in a Saliva Test?
A saliva test will detect Ecstasy from 1-5 days.
How Long Does Ecstasy Remain in Hair?
Ecstasy, like many other drugs, can be detected with a hair follicle drug test for up to 90 days.
How Does Ecstasy Build Up in the System?
While the effects of ecstasy usually last about 3-5 hours, the half-life of the drug is closer to 8-9
hours. Therefore, users of ecstasy may try to take more of the drug as the "high" begins to wear
off while the first dose is still in their system.
Although the "high" of ecstasy use can diminish after 3-5 hours, the side-effects can last up to
24 hours.
These effects can include enhanced impulsivity and difficulty in maintaining attention during
complex tasks.
Research has found that after a single dose (56 mg) ecstasy users can exhibit an acceptance of
higher levels of risk, acute changes in cognitive performance, and impaired information
processing ability.
For these and other reasons, driving while using ecstasy is considered impaired driving.
Many states have passed zero tolerance laws regarding drugged driving. In those states, if you
are found to have any ecstasy at all in your system, you could be charged with impaired driving.
Another Ecstasy Factor
Ecstasy is an illegally manufactured drug. You never really know what you are getting. It could
contain other drugs and substances that can be detected in a drug test long after the ecstasy is
out of the system.
What Are the Effects of Ecstasy (MDMA)?
Question: What Are the Effects of MDMA?
Answer: MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because
of the positive effects that a person experiences within an
hour or so after taking a single dose. Those effects include
feelings of mental stimulation, emotional warmth, empathy
toward others, a general sense of well-being, and decreased
anxiety. In addition, users report enhanced sensory perception
as a hallmark of the MDMA experience.
Because of the drug's stimulant properties, when used in club
or dance settings MDMA can also enable users to dance for
extended periods. However, there are some users who report
undesirable effects immediately, including anxiety, agitation,
and recklessness.
As noted, MDMA is not a benign drug. MDMA can produce a
variety of adverse health effects, including nausea, chills, sweating, involuntary teeth clenching,
muscle cramping, and blurred vision. MDMA overdose can also occur - the symptoms can
include high blood pressure, faintness, panic attacks, and in severe cases, a loss of
consciousness, and seizures.
The Dangers of Hyperthermia Linked to Ecstasy

Because of its stimulant properties and the environment in which it is often taken, MDMA is
associated with the vigorous physical activity for extended periods. This can lead to one of the
most significant although rare, acute adverse effects -- a marked rise in body temperature
(hyperthermia).
Treatment of hyperthermia requires prompt medical attention, as it can rapidly lead to muscle
breakdown, which can in turn result in kidney failure.
In addition, dehydration, hypertension, and heart failure may occur in susceptible individuals.
MDMA can also reduce the pumping efficiency of the heart, of particular concern during periods
of increased physical activity, thereby further complicating these problems.
Significant Reduction in Mental Ability
MDMA is rapidly absorbed into the human bloodstream, but once in the body MDMA interferes
with the body's ability to metabolize, or break down the drug. As a result, additional doses of
MDMA can produce unexpectedly high blood levels, which could worsen the cardiovascular and
other toxic effects of this drug. MDMA also interferes with the metabolism of other drugs,
including some of the adulterants that may be found in MDMA tablets.
In the hours after taking the drug, MDMA produces significant reductions in mental abilities.
These changes, particularly those affecting memory, can last for up to a week, and possibly
longer in regular users. The fact that MDMA markedly impairs information processing
emphasizes the potential dangers of performing complex or even skilled activities, such as
driving a car, while under the influence of this drug.
Some Side-Effects Can Linger
Over the course of the week following the moderate use of the drug, many MDMAusers report
feeling a range of emotions, including anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and sadness that in some
individuals can be as severe as true clinical depression.
Similarly, elevated anxiety, impulsiveness, and aggression, as well as sleep disturbances, lack
of appetite and reduced interest in and pleasure from sex have been observed in regular MDMA
users.
Some of these disturbances may not be directly attributable to MDMA, but may be related to
some of the other drugs often used in combination with MDMA, such as cocaine or marijuana,
or to potential adulterants found in MDMA tablets.
What Does MDMA Do to the Brain?
Molly's Effect on the Brain Can Be Long Lasting
Most illegal drugs cause some
effect on the brain. Generally,
that is why people take drugs in
the first place, because they act
in the brain to get them high,
enhance their mood, or cause
hallucinations.
Unfortunately for the user, most
drugs not only affect the regions
of the brain that makes them feel
differently, they can affect other
parts of the brain that are
essential for functioning,
learning, or remembering.
MDMA, better known as ecstasy
or Molly, is no exception. It acts
on the neurotransmitters in the

brain to give users an extreme alteration of their mood, but can also cause cognitive defects and
loss of motor function.
Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine
When someone takes MDMA, it causes serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine to be
released from their neuron storage sites. This results in an increase in neurotransmitter
activity in the brain.
The release of excessive amounts of these neurotransmitters by drug use can cause the brain
to become depleted of these chemical messengers with many negative consequences.
Serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine communicate information throughout the brain. They
relay signals between nerve cells.
Serotonin helps maintain a stable mood and other emotional functions and also is involved in
the regulation of sleep cycles, pain control, and digestion, among others.
Dopamine is a transmitter is involved with regulating mood and focus as well as other central
nervous system functions.
Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the "fight and flight" response and in
the regulation of mood, anxiety, sleep, energy and focus.
It has been difficult for scientists to study the effects of MDMA use on the human brain because
the imaging technology necessary to do so is not yet available.
Therefore, most of the research into how MDMA affects the brain has been done with laboratory
animals.
However, the research that has been done has found that MDMA produces a greater release of
serotonin and less dopamine release that other stimulants like methamphetamine.
Researchers believe that it is the release of excessive amounts of serotonin that produces the
mood elevating effects experienced by MDMA users.
But, serotonin also plays a significant role in the regulation of sleep, pain, emotion, appetite and
other functions. When MDMA causes the release of large amounts of serotonin, the brain can
become depleted of it and contribute to the unpleasant after-effects that many ecstasy
users experience for after taking MDMA.
Long-Lasting Effects on the Brain
Animal research has shown that the damage that MDMA use causes serotonin-containing
neurons can be long-lasting. Measuring the long-lasting effect of MDMA use in humans has
proven to be more difficult for scientists, but some studies have found that some heavy MDMA
users experience:
Long-lasting confusion
Depression
Working memory impairment
Impaired attention processes
Changes in Brain Activity
Some human imaging studies of Molly users have found that the drug changes activity in the
brain regions involved in:
Cognition
Emotion
Motor function
Effects of Other Drugs
Another difficulty investigators have had with evaluating the effects of MDMA use on the brain is
that many times the ecstasy tablets users purchase on the street are not pure MDMA, but
contain other drugs or substances.
There is also the likelihood that ecstasy users are also using other drugs like marijuana or
alcohol, which have their own effects on the brain. Therefore, it is difficult for researchers to
determine if the effects they observe are from MDMA alone, the other drugs, or a combination of
the two.

Other Factors That Could Play a Role

Along with the possible use of other drugs, other factors that could play a role in some of the
cognitive deficits observed in MDMA users include:
Gender
Dosage
Frequency of use
Age of first use
Genetic and environmental factors
Other Effects of MDMA on the Brain
There are studies of long-term MDMA users that have indicated several other effects of heavy
use of the drug:
Global Form Processing: One study found that recreational MDMA use affected the users' ability
to integrate local orientation information into a global form percept.
Impaired Sexual Arousal: Because MDMA affects serotonin levels more than dopamine levels in
some users, some researchers believe long-time use can cause impaired sexual arousal and
the cognitive perception of romantic relationships.
Impaired Impulse Control: Other researchers believe that, like many other drugs, MDMA affects
the region of the brain involved with impulse control and therefore can contribute to the
development of substance abuse disorders.
Effects on Unborn Children
There is some research that indicates that MDMA use not only affects the brains of the users
but also the brains of the unborn children of the pregnant users of the drug.
Animal studies have found significant adverse effects on learning and memory when exposed to
MDMA during a developmental period equivalent to the third trimester in humans.
Researchers are concerned about the potential adverse effects of MDMA on developing unborn
children when female users of the drug who are pregnant continue to use because they
mistakenly believe that Molly is a "safe drug."
Do you think you may need treatment for drug abuse? Take the Drug Abuse Treatment
Screening Quiz to find out.
How Long Does Methamphetamine Stay in Your System?
Detection Timetable Depends on Many Variables
Determining exactly how long meth is detectable in the body depends on many variables,
including which kind drug test is being used. Methamphetamine - also known as Desoxyn,
crank, crystal, glass, ice, speed - can be detected for a shorter time with some tests, but can be
"visible" for up to three months in other tests.
The timetable for detecting meth in the system is also dependent upon each individual's
metabolism, body mass, age, hydration level, physical activity, health conditions and other
factors, making it almost impossible to determine an exact time meth will show up on a drug
test.
he following is an estimated range of times, or detection windows, during which meth can be
detected by various testing methods:
How Long Is Methamphetamine Detectible in Urine?
Meth can show up in a urine test from 1-4 days.
How Long Does Methamphetamine Remain in Blood?
A blood test can detect meth for 1-3 days.
How Long Does Methamphetamine Show Up in Saliva?
Methamphetamine will show up in a saliva test for 1-4 days.
How Long Does Methamphetamine Stay in Hair?
Methamphetamine, like many other drugs, can be detected with a hair follicle drug test for up to
90 days.
How Is Methamphetamine Removed From the Body?

Methamphetamine is metabolized by a liver enzyme and is excreted by the kidneys in urine. It is

metabolized to amphetamine, p-OH-amphetamine, and norephedrine.
When taken orally, concentrations of methamphetamine peak in the bloodstream between 2.6
and 3.6 hours and the amphetamine metabolite peaks at 12 hours.
If meth is taken intravenously, the elimination half-life is a little longer, about 12.2 hours.
Detection Time Longer Than Effects Time
The effects of methamphetamine begin rapidly after intravenous use or when it is smoked. The
main effects last from four to eight hours with residual effects lasting up to 12 hours.
Therefore, amphetamine is detectable in drug tests long after the user no longer feels the
effects.
The effects of methamphetamine are also much different at prescribed therapeutic doses than
those dosages usually used by meth abusers. Doses of 10 to 30 mg can improve reaction time,
relief fatigue, improve cognitive function testing, increase subjective feelings of alertness,
increase time estimation, and increase euphoria.
However, at larger dosages meth can cause agitation, inattention, restlessness, inability to focus
attention on divided attention tasks, motor excitation, increased reaction time, time distortion,
depressed reflexes, poor balance and coordination, and inability to follow directions.
Meth and Drugged Driving Laws
Many states have passed zero tolerance laws for driving while under the influence of
methamphetamine. In those states, if a blood test shows any amount of meth at all, you can be
charged with driving under the influence.
Because methamphetamine remains in the system long after the effects of the drug wear off,
you might feel like you are okay to drive, but can still run the risk of being charged with drugged
driving if any meth shows up in a blood or urine test.
Effect of Meth on Behavior
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers who are under the
influence of methamphetamine display a wide variety of behaviors including "speeding, lane
travel, erratic driving, accidents, nervousness, rapid and non-stop speech, unintelligible speech,
disorientation, agitation, staggering and awkward movements, irrational or violent behavior, and
unconsciousness."
In the 101 cases reviewed by the NHTSA in which meth was the only drug detected, impairment
was attributed to "distraction, disorientation, motor excitation, hyperactive reflexes, general
cognitive impairment, or withdrawal, fatigue, and hypersomnolence."
Meth and Alcohol Effects
Meth users may think that doing methamphetamine can reverse some of the impairment effects
of alcohol. That's because meth may restore alcohol-induced impairment in simple repetitive
tasks of short duration.
However, NHTSA research has uncovered no restoration of alcohol-induced deficits of balance
and steadiness. Overall, research indicates that methamphetamine is more likely to increase the
impairing effects of alcohol.
MDMA (Ecstasy) Abuse
A Brief History of MDMA

MDMA was developed in Germany in the early 1900s as a parent compound to be used to
synthesize other pharmaceuticals. During the 1970s, in the United States, some psychiatrists
began using MDMA as a psychotherapeutic tool, despite the fact that the drug had never
undergone formal clinical trials nor received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) for use in humans. In fact, it was only in late 2000 that the FDA approved
the first small clinical trial for MDMA that will determine if the drug can be used safely with 2
sessions of ongoing psychotherapy under carefully monitored conditions to treat post-traumatic
stress disorder. Nevertheless, the drug gained a small following among psychiatrists in the late
1970s and early 1980s, with some even calling it "penicillin for the soul" because it was
perceived to enhance communication in patient sessions and reportedly allowed users to
achieve insights about their problems. It was also during this time that MDMA first started
becoming available on the street. In 1985, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
banned the drug, placing it on its list of Schedule I drugs, corresponding to those substances
with no proven therapeutic value.2

Serotonin Present in
Cerebral Cortex
Neurons Long-term effects
in monkeys. The left panel is
brain tissue from a normal
monkey. The middle and
right panels illustrate the
loss of serotonin-containing
nerve endings following
MDMA exposure.

What is the scope of MDMA abuse in the U.S.?

It is difficult to determine the exact scope of this problem because MDMA is often used in
combination with other substances, and does not appear in some traditional data sources, such
as treatment admission rates.
More than 11 million persons aged 12 or older reported using ecstasy at least once in their
lifetimes, according to the 2004 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The number of
current (use in past month) users in 2004 was estimated to be 450,000.9
Monitoring the Future Survey* - Trends in MDMA Prevalance, 2002-2004

Note: These data are from the 2005 Monitoring the Future survey, funded by the National
Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, DHHS, and conducted annually by the
University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research. "Annual" refers to use at least once during
the year preceding an individual's response to the survey. "30-day" refers to use at least once
during the 30 days preceding an individual's response to the survey.
The Drug Abuse Warning Network, maintained by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration, reported that mentions of MDMA in drug abuse-related cases in
hospital emergency departments were 2,221 for the third and fourth quarters of 2003. The
majority of patients who came to emergency departments mentioning MDMA as a factor in their
admissions during that time were aged 1820.10
Trends in Perceived Harmfulness of MDMA Use

There is, however, some encouraging news from NIDAs Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey, an
annual survey used to track drug abuse trends among adolescents in middle and high schools
across the country. Between 2001 and 2005, annual ecstasy use decreased by 52 percent in
8th-graders, 58 percent in 10th-graders, and 67 percent in 12th-graders. Rates of lifetime
MDMA use decreased significantly from 2004 to 2005 among 12th graders.
In 2005, 8th-graders reported a significant decrease in perceived harmfulness in using MDMA
occasionally. The MTF data also show that MDMA use extends across many demographic
subgroups. Among 12th-graders in 2005, for example, 3.9 percent of Whites, 3.0 percent of
Hispanic students, and 1.4 percent of African-Americans reported using MDMA in the year prior
to the survey.11
Who is abusing MDMA?
MDMA first gained popularity among adolescents and young adults in the nightclub scene or
weekendlong dance parties known as raves. However, the profile of the typical MDMA user has
been changing. Community-level data from NIDA's Community Epidemiology Work Group
(CEWG), continued to report that use of MDMA has spread among populations outside the
nightclub scene.
Reports also indicate that use is spreading beyond predominantly White youth to a broader
range of ethnic groups. In Chicago, the drug continues to be predominantly used by White
youth, but there are increasing reports of its use by African-American adults in their twenties and
thirties. Also, indicators in New York suggest that both the distribution and use of club drugs are
becoming more common in non-White communities.12
What are the effects of MDMA?
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person may
experience within an hour or so after taking a single dose. Those effects include feelings of
mental stimulation, emotional warmth, empathy toward others, a general sense of well being,
and decreased anxiety. In addition, users report enhanced sensory perception as a hallmark of
the MDMA experience.1,2
Effects of MDMA
Reported Undesirable Effects Effects (up to 1 week post-MMDA, or longer):
Anxiety
Restlessness
Irritability
Sadness
Impulsiveness
Aggression
Sleep Disturbances
Lack of appetite
Thirst
Reduced interest in and pleasure from sex
Significant reductions in mental abilities
Potential Adverse Health Effects:
Nausea
Chills
Sweating
Involuntary jaw clenching and teeth grinding
Muscle cramping
Blurred vision
Marked rise in body temperature (hyperthermia)
Dehydration

High Blood Pressure

Heart failure
Kidney failure
Arrythmia
Symptoms of MDMA Overdose:
High Blood Pressure
Faintness
Panic attacks
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
As noted, MDMA is not a benign drug. MDMA can produce a variety of adverse health effects,
including nausea, chills, sweating, involuntary teeth clenching, muscle cramping, and blurred
vision.2 MDMA overdose can also occurthe symptoms can include high blood pressure,
faintness, panic attacks, and in severe cases, a loss of consciousness and seizures.1
Because of its stimulant properties and the environments in which it is often taken, MDMA is
associated with vigorous physical activity for extended periods.2 This can lead to one of the
most significant, although rare, acute adverse effectsa marked rise in body temperature
(hyperthermia).3,4 Treatment of hyperthermia requires prompt medical attention, as it can rapidly
lead to muscle breakdown, which can in turn result in kidney failure. In addition, dehydration,
hypertension, and heart failure may occur in susceptible individuals. MDMA can also reduce the
pumping efficiency of the heart,6 of particular concern during periods of increased physical
activity, further complicating these problems.
MDMA is rapidly absorbed into the human bloodstream, but once in the body, MDMA
metabolites interfere with the body's ability to metabolize, or break down, the drug.8 As a result,
additional doses of MDMA can produce unexpectedly high blood levels, which could worsen the
cardiovascular and other toxic effects of this drug. MDMA also interferes with the metabolism of
other drugs, including some of the adulterants that may be found in MDMA tablets.
In the hours after taking the drug, MDMA produces significant reductions in mental abilities.
These changes, particularly those affecting memory, can last for up to a week, and possibly
longer in regular users. The fact that MDMA markedly impairs information processing
emphasizes the potential dangers of performing complex or skilled activities, such as driving a
car, while under the influence of this drug2,13.
The Neurobiology of Ecstasy (MDMA)

MDMA alters brain chemistry by binding to serotonin transporters.

Over the course of a week following moderate use of the drug, many MDMA users report feeling
a range of emotions, including anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and sadness that in some
individuals can be as severe as true clinical depression.14Similarly, elevated anxiety,
impulsiveness, and aggression, as well as sleep disturbances, lack of appetite, and reduced
interest in and pleasure from sex have been observed in regular MDMA users.15,16 Some of
these disturbances may not be directly attributable to MDMA, but may be related to some of the
other drugs often used in combination with MDMA, such as cocaine or marijuana, or to
adulterants commonly found in MDMA tablets.
What does MDMA do to the brain?
MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters (the
chemical messengers of brain cells): serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.5 Like other
amphetamines, MDMA causes these neurotransmitters to be released from their storage sites in
neurons, resulting in increased neurotransmitter activity. Compared to the very potent stimulant,
methamphetamine, MDMA causes greater serotonin release and somewhat lesser dopamine
release.17Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in the regulation of mood,
sleep, pain, appetite, and other behaviors. The excess release of serotonin by MDMA likely
causes the mood elevating effects experienced by MDMA users. However, by releasing large
amounts of serotonin, MDMA causes the brain to become significantly depleted of this important
neurotransmitter, contributing to the negative behavioral aftereffects that users often experience
for several days after taking MDMA.18
Numerous studies in animals have demonstrated that MDMA can damage serotonin-containing
neurons;1,3 some of these studies have shown these effects to be long lasting. This suggests
that such damage may occur in humans as well; however, measuring serotonin damage in
humans is more difficult. Studies have shown that some heavy MDMA users experience
longlasting confusion, depression, and selective impairment of working memory and attention
processes.19,20,21,22,23 Such memory impairments have been associated with a decrease in
serotonin metabolites or other markers of serotonin function. Imaging studies in MDMA
users19,21,24 have shown changes in brain activity in regions involved in cognition, emotion, and
motor function.25,26,27However, improved imaging technologies and more research are needed to

confirm these findings and to elucidate the exact nature of the effects of MDMA on the human
brain.
It is also important to keep in mind that many users of ecstasy may unknowingly be taking other
drugs that are sold as ecstasy, and/or they may intentionally use other drugs, such as
marijuana, which could contribute to these behavioral effects. Additionally, most studies in
people do not have behavioral measures from before the users began taking drugs, making it
difficult to rule out pre-existing conditions.20,28,29 Factors such as gender, dosage, frequency and
intensity of use, age at which use began, the use of other drugs, as well as genetic and
environmental factors all may play a role in some of the cognitive deficits that result from MDMA
use and should be taken into consideration when studying the effects of MDMA in humans.
Given that most MDMA users are young and in their reproductive years, it is possible that some
female users may be pregnant when they take MDMA, either inadvertently or intentionally
because of the misperception that it is a safe drug. The potential adverse effects of MDMA on
the developing fetus are of great concern. Behavioral studies in animals have found significant
adverse effects on tests of learning and memory from exposure to MDMA during a
developmental period equivalent to the third trimester in humans.30 However, the effects of
MDMA on animals earlier in development are unclear;31,32 therefore, more research is needed to
determine what the effects of MDMA are on the developing human nervous system.
Life Threatening Effects

Is MDMA Addictive?
MDMA affects many of the same neurotransmitter systems in the brain that are targeted by
other addictive drugs. Experiments have shown that animals will self administer MDMAan
important indicator of a drugs dependency potentialalthough the degree of self-administration
is less than some other drugs of abuse such as cocaine.34

Few studies have attempted to assess MDMA dependency among users in the general
population, and those that have been conducted have shown widely varying results, likely
because of the different population samples and different types of measures used. We do know
that some MDMA users report symptoms including: continued use despite knowledge of
physical or psychological harm; tolerance (or diminished response); and withdrawal effects,
such as fatigue, loss of appetite, depressed feelings, and trouble concentrating.
What do we know about preventing MDMA abuse?
Because social context and networks seem to be an important component of MDMA use, the
use of peer-led advocacy and drug prevention programs may be a promising approach to
reduce MDMA use among adolescents and young adults. High schools and colleges can serve
as important venues for delivering messages about the effects of MDMA use. Providing
accurate scientific information regarding the effects of MDMA is important if we hope to reduce
the damaging effects of this drug. Education is one of the most important tools for use in
preventing MDMA abuse.
Are there effective treatments for MDMA abuse?
There are no specific treatments for MDMA abuse. The most effective treatments for drug abuse
and addiction are cognitive behavioral interventions that are designed to help modify the
patient's thinking, expectancies, and behaviors, and to increase skills in coping with life's
stressors. Drug abuse recovery support groups may be effective in combination with behavioral
interventions to support long-term, drug-free recovery. There are currently no pharmacological
treatments for dependence on MDMA.
Glossary
Addiction: A chronic, relapsing disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use.
Adulterant: A substance, either a biologically active material such as another drug or an inert
material, added to a drug when it is formed into a tablet or capsule.
Cardiovascular system: The heart and blood vessels.
Dopamine: A neurotransmitter present in regions of the brain that regulate movement, emotion,
motivation, and the feeling of pleasure.
Ecstasy: Common street name for MDMA.
Gastrointestinal system: The stomach and intestines.
Hyperthermia: A potentially dangerous rise in body temperature.
MDMA: Common chemical name for 3,4-methlyenedioxymethamphetamine.
Neurotransmitter: A chemical that acts as a messenger to carry signals or information from one
nerve cell to another.
Norepinephrine: A neurotransmitter present in regions of the brain that affect heart rate and
blood pressure.

Serotonin: A neurotransmitter used in widespread parts of the brain, which is involved in sleep,
movement and emotions
Tolerance: A decrease in the effect of a drug that occurs with repeated administration.

Ecstasy & MDMA Ecstasy (XTC) pills and pure MDMA

Thread Tools
#1
23-11-2009, 18:27

metalupyour455
Silver Member

Join Date: 01-02-2008

Male from United States
Posts: 118

Most efficient route of administration of MDMA

SWIM has rolled many times before, yet he has never tried molly. What do you swimmers
think is the best method of ingesting molly and why? SWIM has heard of people putting the
powder into water and drinking it. People have said that this helps cover the taste a bit (since
it is dilute after all). Would this be an efficient method? SWIM has heard that snorting molly is
somewhat painful, and that it is a shorter roll, so SWIM would prefer not to insufflate.
Last edited by Nnizzle; 01-12-2010 at 17:29. Reason: title

#2
23-11-2009, 18:32

YeaXTC
Palladium Member

Join Date: 27-06-2009

25 y/o Male from United States
Posts: 388

Re: Best Method of Ingesting Molly?

Just depends on the swimmer, swim would just suggest putting it in a capsule and swallowing
it like that, by putting it in water swiy risk losing (X) amount because it could stay at the bottom
of the bottle, stick to the sides, spill out, etc etc and just be a waste of any certain amount.
Snorting it does cause shorter roll, but swims snorted a part of his capsule or tab before, and
eaten the rest with great results. Swiy will comeup faster because of the snorted bit, and
continue to roll because of the ingested xtc. - this does burn like crazy for a little while, and
isn't necessary, as one can roll solely by ingesting, just a suggestion and something that swim
does every time he rolls.
Hope this helps.
xo
Jesse
Last edited by YeaXTC; 23-11-2009 at 18:33. Reason: edited