MDMA

Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an an empathogen which means it increases an individual’s feeling of empathy and compassion towards others.

MDMA is commonly called and known as Ecstasy. However, some pills sold as ecstasy may only have a small amount of MDMA or none at all. Other drugs and ‘fillers’ are often used instead. This makes it hard to know what reactions to expect after taking MDMA or if negative side effects will be experienced.

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Common Names

  • MD
  • Ecstasy
  • Smarties
  • Molly

How is it used?

MDMA usually comes in a tablet form and is swallowed. The pills come in different colors and sizes and are often imprinted with a picture or symbol.

It can also come as capsules, powder or crystal.

MDMA Overdose

Overdose

If you take a large amount or have a strong batch of MDMA, you may also experience: Hyperthermia—a dangerous overheating of the body.

  • Very high blood pressure.
  • Fainting spells.
  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Seizures.
  • Panic attacks.

Coming Down

In the days after MDMA use you may experience:

  • Restless sleep and exhaustion
  • Anxiety, irritability and depression
  • Difficulty concentrating
The use of depressant drugs as alcohol, benzodiazepines or cannabis to help with these ‘come down’ effects, may result in dependence on both types of drugs.

MDMA & PTSD?

The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) have been conducting a study on MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy to treat issues like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & depression.

The trials are still ongoing and have shown some positive signs.

For more information check out MAPS

Side Effects of
MDMA

There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk.

The effects of taking MDMA with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous.

MDMA affects everyone differently, based on:

  • A person’s size, weight and health
  • Whether the person is used to taking it
  • Whether other drugs are taken around the same time
  • The amount taken
  • The strength of the drug
The effects of MDMA are usually felt about 20 minutes to an hour after it’s taken and last for around 6 hours.

During this time, the person may experience:

  • Euphoria
  • Feeling energetic and confident
  • Large pupils
  • Jaw clenching and teeth grinding
  • Heightened senses (sight, hearing and touch)
  • Excessive sweating and skin tingles
  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Reduced appetite
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Dehydration
  • Heat stroke
  • Drinking extreme amounts of water (can cause death)

Long-term effects:

Regular use of MDMA may cause:
  • Colds or flu
  • Depression
  • Needing to use more to get the same effect
  • Dependence on MDMA
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Financial, work and social problems

MDMA + ALCOHOL

Increased risk of dehydration and consequently drinking too much water.

MDMA + ICE OR SPEED

Increased risk of anxiety and reduced brain functioning due to dopamine depletion. Enormous strain on the heart and other parts of the body, which can lead to stroke.

Mixing MDMA with other drugs