3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a common recreational drug. It is also known as Molly or Ecstasy, and to a lesser extent, Mandy or Adam. MDMA is also beginning Phase 3 trials with the US FDA for the treatment of PTSD. However, the latest research also suggests that MDMA can be highly effective as part of a treatment plan for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other severe mental health conditions. The risk of severe health complications, such as hyperthermia, cardiovascular issues, and even death, increases with overdosing molly mdma or consuming impure substances.
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Although MDMA is very popular for use in clubs due to its enhancement of music and dance, that doesn’t mean it’s exclusively a clubber’s drug. It can be used for various forms of personal and relationship development, and clinical trials are using it to treat sufferers of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, addiction, and more. In one smaller study in Sweden, researchers followed 50 people with severe mental health conditions for 5 years as they participated in psychedelic-assisted therapy. They found that most participants experienced improvements in their mood, emotional control, memory, and relationships.
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When people buy MDMA from dealers on the street, they do not know what they are taking. Not all the effects are predictable because pure Ecstasy can contain other unwanted drugs or chemicals. As the drug is illegal, there is no government regulation over its production. Long-term safety could not be guaranteed with this small group, and there is a risk of addiction and suicide in a population already at risk for these serious outcomes. Researchers note larger phase 3 studies should be completed, but those with PSTD should NOT use MDMA on their own to try to replicate these results.
- People also often use it alongside alcohol or other drugs, which may enhance the negative effects.
- Current regulations have classed MDMA as a Schedule 1 controlled substance.
- The drug gained popularity in the 1980s with young adults at large music festivals and all-night dance parties or raves.
- Researchers note larger phase 3 studies should be completed, but those with PSTD should NOT use MDMA on their own to try to replicate these results.
- Ecstasy is a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, which means that the DEA has determined that it has no medical benefit and a high potential for abuse.
What are the risks?
MDMA also increases communication between the amygdala and the hippocampus, according to the study. People suffering from PTSD, on the other hand, see a reduction in communication between these areas. I feel absolutely clean inside, and there is nothing but pure euphoria. If using one of these classic psychedelics, like LSD or shrooms, we strongly recommend reading the acid/shrooms/psychedelics guide Tripsafe.
This means that it’s thought to have a high potential to be abused and that it’s not legally considered to have health benefits. Some people who use MDMA do report symptoms of addiction, including continued use despite negative consequences, tolerance, withdrawal, and craving, according to the NIH. Also, there is evidence that people who develop a rash that looks like acne after using this drug may be at risk of severe side effects, including liver damage, if they continue to use the drug. Research in animals indicates that MDMA is neurotoxic and may affect the brain. Clinical studies suggest that MDMA may increase the risk of long-term or permanent problems with memory and learning. MDMA stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, from brain neurons producing a high that lasts from 3 to 6 hours, but the length of a high is variable based on the user.
