Ecstasy (AKA MDMA) is one of the most popular ‘club drugs’. It is completely man made, unlike marijuana and tobacco products. It is most commonly ingested by swallowing a pill and it takes about forty-five minutes for the high to kick in, a high that lasts about three to six hours. While the symptoms vary from one user to the next, MDMA can take away inhibitions and offer a euphoria filled, worry free couple of hours, but the after effects can last days or even a week.
The combination of MDMA and vigorous exercise (IE: dancing all night at a rave or club) can lead to the body temperature rising dangerously, which can in turn affect the heart and the kidneys and can sometimes lead to death.
“Ecstasy” and “Molly” are slang terms for MDMA, short for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a name that’s nearly as long as the all-night parties where MDMA is often used. That’s why MDMA has been called a “club drug.” It has effects similar to those of other stimulants, and it often makes the person feel like everyone is his or her friend, even when that’s not the case.
Although statistics tells us that MDMA use among teenagers is on the decline, many will still pop a tablet from time to time. It is easy to see why the drug seems attractive to users, it offers a few blissful hours of serenity, friendliness and euphoria, but is it really worth the ‘come down’ that will take days to recover from? It should be noted that Ecstasy can be addictive and with the changing chemistry of MDMA, it is difficult for scientists to determine whether Ecstasy has any serious long term affects on the brain. However, the short term effects on the brain can include memory loss and a change in the way serotonin regulates mood, aggression, sexual activity, sleep, and sensitivity to pain.
Like many street drugs, MDMA may seem a fun way to spend a night out, but the side effects and the constantly changing chemicals used in it’s production suggests the best thing is to avoid the drug completely as it can be very dangerous.