Ecstasy is a drug that is usually referred to as MDMA, named for the chemical composition of methylene-dioxymethamphetamine. The drug is a hallucinogen that is sold on the street for people to use in tablet form. Many effects happen in the brain and body when a person uses the drug, including euphoria, and sensations of floating. The deeper impact on the brain is where many people are concerned about the use and long-term effects.
Abuse of MDMA
Since MDMA is not an expensive drug to find or use, it can be taken frequently by people who use it for staying up all night dancing, partying, or just want to have that sensation it provides. The shadow side of using the drug is that young people are more frequently taking the drug without realizing the negative side effects it can bring. It opens the door to many health consequences both mentally and physically for an individual who abuses the drug. This may include:
- Destruction of serotonin-producing neurons in the brain
- Mood regulation
- Aggressive behavior
- Pain sensitivity
- Memory loss
Some exposure to MDMA over time can cause irreparable brain damage to parts of the brain that can never be fully recovered.
Using Other Substances
It is not uncommon for people who use MDMA to also use marijuana. People who use both or drink and use MDMA will have detrimental effects on their memory, learning, and general cognition. Heavy use of MDMA can impair long-term brain functioning that creates a negative effect on being able to hold jobs, manage relationships, or function on a daily basis. Dependence on the drug can develop where the person is not able to go without using it for any length of time. If the person cannot be without the drug for more than a day or two, they are likely developing tolerance that leads to long-term dependence and addiction. Heavy use of MDMA can cause premature death for people who have strokes or a heart attack after using the drug. This also depends on what other drugs the person uses in combination with it and how they are using the drugs. The goals of treatment for someone who abuses MDMA are to withdraw safely from the drug (and other substances), find mental health support, and treat underlying causes of addiction to keep the person from relapsing.
We help you confront all kinds of addiction, including MDMA or other types of drugs. We are located in beautiful Laguna Beach. Call us to find out how we can help you navigate addiction recovery: 888-981-4295
