What Are the Dangers of Ecstasy?

Ecstasy use can have a number of harmful side effects, particularly when people develop an addiction and are unable to stop on their own. But you can prevent the dangers of ecstasy use by seeking evidence-based ecstasy addiction treatment. Reach out to Seasons in Malibu today by calling 424.235.2009 to find the treatment you need.

Understanding Ecstasy

Ecstasy is a powerful synthetic drug, typically sold in pills or capsules. Sometimes called MDMA or Molly, the main psychoactive ingredient in most ecstasy is called 3, 4-methylenedioxy-N-methamphetamine. However, since ecstasy is an illegal drug, there are no guarantees of purity or strength when purchasing ecstasy on the street.

As such, tablets or capsules of ecstasy are frequently found to contain other chemicals. Some of the most common drugs found in ecstasy tablets include:

• Methamphetamines
• Amphetamines
• Ketamine
• Cough medicine
• Synthetic cathinones (“bath salts”)

In rare cases, police have even found ecstasy tablets containing the synthetic opioid fentanyl.

Ecstasy itself is a potent central nervous system stimulant and mild hallucinogen. When people take this drug, they often experience effects such as:

• A sudden burst of energy
• Rapid speech
• Heightened sensory experience
• Greater empathy toward others
• A sense of well-being
• Increased extroversion

However, these effects come at a cost, and there are a number of dangers and side effects of ecstasy that can cause serious problems.

Dangers of Ecstasy

The major dangers of ecstasy can be broken down into three main categories:

1. Addiction
2. Overdose
3. Mental health disturbances

People can develop an ecstasy addiction when they use ecstasy repeatedly. Ecstasy causes the brain to flood with serotonin and dopamine, causing a number of mood changes and creating a desire to use ecstasy again. This leads to changes in the brain that are associated with addiction and leads to an inability to stop using ecstasy despite harmful consequences.

Overdosing on ecstasy most commonly happens as a function of overheating. Ecstasy raises the core body temperature, reduces blood flow to the extremities, and is typically taken in warm environments where people are engaged in physical activity — such as a rave or concert. These effects can lead to brain swelling, extreme dehydration, and kidney failure.

Finally, ecstasy is known to create significant mental health disturbances in certain people. Some people may experience panic attacks or delusions while taking ecstasy, or they may start to show signs of severe depression after the effects of ecstasy wear off.

Side Effects of Ecstasy

Taking ecstasy causes a number of changes to occur throughout the body and leads to unpleasant side effects that could lead to future harm. These effects include:

• Jaw clenching
• Appetite suppression, often leading to unexpected weight loss
• Sweating
• Illogical thinking
• Headache
• Chills
• Insomnia

These side effects can often cause long-term damage, such as damage to your teeth and jaw joints due to grinding your teeth while on ecstasy.

Short-Term Dangers of Ecstasy

Taking ecstasy can lead to several immediate risks, such as:

1. Dehydration and Overheating
• MDMA raises body temperature and boosts physical activity, which can result in hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature).
• Dehydration is common, particularly in hot, crowded places like clubs or festivals.
2. Heart and Blood Pressure Issues
• Ecstasy can trigger irregular heart rhythms, an increased heart rate, and higher blood pressure.
• Individuals with existing heart conditions face a greater risk of severe complications, including heart attacks.
3. Serotonin Syndrome
• MDMA can overstimulate serotonin receptors, potentially causing serotonin syndrome—a serious condition characterized by confusion, agitation, rapid heartbeat, and seizures.
4. Cognitive and Emotional Effects
• Users might experience anxiety, paranoia, or hallucinations.
• The effects of MDMA can impair decision-making, raising the chances of engaging in risky behaviors, such as unsafe sexual practices or driving while impaired.

Long-Term Dangers of Ecstasy

The long-term effects of ecstasy are less well understood than the immediate effects, but researchers have found several challenges that regular ecstasy use can bring about, including:

• Impaired cognitive functioning
• Depression
• Heart disease
• Sleep difficulties
• Impulsivity

Extended use of ecstasy can lead to chronic health issues, including:

1. Brain Damage and Cognitive Decline
• Long-term use can harm serotonin-producing neurons, resulting in memory loss, trouble concentrating, and other cognitive impairments.
2. Addiction and Dependence
• While MDMA is not as physically addictive as some substances, it can foster a strong psychological dependence, making users feel they need the drug to enjoy social situations or feel happy.
3. Mood Disorders
• Ongoing use disrupts natural serotonin levels, heightening the risk of depression, anxiety, and mood swings.
4. Liver and Kidney Damage
• MDMA can trigger toxic reactions that harm the liver and kidneys, especially at high doses or when mixed with other substances.
5. Heart Complications
• Regular use may lead to long-term cardiovascular problems, including a higher risk of heart attack or stroke.

Researchers have seen these effects in as little as two years of regular ecstasy use. But there is a way to prevent these dangers: finding evidence-based substance use treatment that can help you stop ecstasy use for good.

Start Ecstasy Treatment at Seasons in Malibu

Seasons in Malibu offers evidence-based ecstasy treatment for people who are having trouble breaking free from their addictions on their own. Call our team today at 424.235.2009 or reach out online to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and start your path to recovery today.