Some people seek ecstasy effects from a tablet, capsule or white powder known as MDMA or 3, 4 methylenedioxymethylamphetamine. Many drug users call it by different names, such as E, X, XTC, Adam, E, A, Roll, or 007. Many people take ecstasy for the instant emotional stimulation effects. However, there are also side effects, causing discomfort and ecstasy dependence.
Ecstasy Effects
Ecstasy effects start to take over you after 30-45 minutes of intake. These begin with a rush of exhilaration, an increase in energy, and euphoria. People also report a feeling of peace although many experience perversions on their perception of time, space, and touch. A short-term feeling of suppressed hunger, thirst, and sleepiness can last from 24 to 48 hours.
Side Effects of Ecstasy
1. Immediate Discomfort
The drug has stimulant properties, which can lead to undesirable effects such as agitation, anxiety, and recklessness.
2. Adverse Health Effects and Overdose
MDMA can produce many adverse health effects, such as nausea, chills, teeth clenching, sweating, muscle cramps, and blurring of vision. MDMA overdose also occurs and symptoms include faintness, high blood pressure, panic attacks, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
3. Hyperthermia
MDMA is often associated with extended periods of vigorous physical activity, leading to a significant increase in body temperature or hyperthermia. This can result in muscle breakdown and lead to kidney failure. In case of hyperthermia, immediate medical treatment is needed.
4. Effects on Mental Abilities
Intake of MDMA leads to significant reduction of mental abilities, affecting memory. This effect can last for up to one week or even longer among regular users. MDMA also impairs information processing, emphasizing the potential danger of performing important activities while under its influence, such as driving your car.
5. Emotional Effects
Moderate use MDMA results in feeling various emotions, including restlessness, anxiety, irritability, sadness, and depression. Other effects include increased anxiety, aggression, impulsiveness, lack of appetite, sleep disturbances, and decreased interest in sex.
6. Drug Interactions
Taking ecstasy with other stimulants such as cocaine or amphetamines can increase the chances of drug overdose and other side effects such as anxiety and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Taking ecstasy and benzodiazepines to reduce symptoms can lead to dependence on both these drugs. Taking ecstasy and alcohol can lead to overheating and dehydration.
When taken with some antidepressant medication it can lead to unpleasant effects including loss of coordination, increased heart rate, nausea and vomiting.
7. Other Effects
Increased blood pressure and heart failure may occur in high-risk individuals. MDMA can reduce heart efficiency especially during periods of increased physical activity.
Ecstasy Dependency and Withdrawal Symptoms
One’s likelihood of becoming dependent or addicted to ecstasy depends on many factors such as family history, genetics and personality. Ecstasy also has an inherent ability to promote tolerance and addiction to the user, resulting in disruption of school, work, and relationships. When one’s supply runs out, withdrawal symptoms occur, including:
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Out-of-body experiences
- Paranoid delusions
- Loss of one’s ability to differentiate reality and fantasy
- Depression
These symptoms may become a threat to a user’s health and safety, and it may affect other people’s well-being as well. You can seek help at DrugAbuse.com, which provides information on detox centers for ecstasy dependents. Visit their website or call this number: (800) 943-0566.
How to Treat Ecstasy Withdrawal Symptoms
A rehabilitation center provides the optimal environment to manage drug problems and detoxification. Experts dealing with ecstasy addiction provide unbroken supervision to patients, administering sedatives, which offset the withdrawal effects. During detoxification, intensive psychotherapy is done to explore the emotional basis of drug dependency and to create a strategy to avoid relapse in the recovering patient. They are also encouraged to participate in a 12-step program or other support group that can bolster therapy.
Rehab centers range from simple facilities to resort-like properties, depending on financial resources and insurance. It is important to find the best treatment center with certified counselors.