This post is more or less meant for the families and friends of those whom are suspected of being under the influence of harmful substances. In order to solve the problem, we need to know what the problem is. Although we may know what drug someone is addicted to, we may not always be aware of the nuances regarding that certain drug. It may help to hear some general information that not everyone knows about.

How it Works

Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), other wise known as Molly or Ecstasy, is a synthetic substance. It is uniquely dangerous for being both a psychedelic and a stimulant, and creates a distorted sense of perception in both time and the surrounding environment. It is often used as a party drug in order to increase one’s enjoyment of an intense social engagement (i.e., concerts, clubs, etc). It can be taken orally in either pill or capsule form. Once it enters the brain, Ecstasy changes the behavior of neural transmitters, which allow nerves to perceive feeling. This creates the altered sense of space that the user experiences. It usually takes 1 dose (1-2 capsules) to get the expected high. However, Ecstasy tablets are sometimes mixed with other drugs to increase the effect, whether or not the user knows it.

How we treat it

There is currently no specific medicinal treatment for Ecstasy, but cognitive behavioral therapy is effective in modifying the patient’s desire for the drug. It is a form of addiction counseling that helps to rework the patient’s desires from negative habits to positive ones. This can include therapy sessions, mental/physical exercises, and intervention support from family and friends. These sessions are meant to give the patient the mental and emotional skills to find strength, satisfaction, and relief outside of their particular addiction.

Short term Symptoms

Nausea
Faintness
Impulsive behavior
Aggressive feelings
Sweating
Anxiety
Reduced Pleasure from Sex
Loss of sleep
Involuntary Teeth Clenching
Loss of appetite
Sadness
Muscle Tension
Chills
Restlessness
Weakening of mental abilities
Blurry vision

Long term Symptoms

Hemorrhaging
Convulsions
Worsened nerve branches
Thought and memory damage
Reduced learning and emotional capability
Damaged body temperature
Kidney or liver failure
Psychosis
Death

Withdrawal Symptoms

Depression
Fatigue
Failed Concentration
Low Appetite