Is Ecstasy Addictive? Risks You Need To Know About

Drugs have an intended effect. Benzodiazepines, for example, can relieve the symptoms of anxiety. Opioids are powerful pain relievers. Stimulants can help a person manage ADHD and narcolepsy. But an unintended effect of many drugs, such as the ones previously mentioned, is addiction.

Many of these substances can be addictive, and the people who take them can find themselves dependent on continuously using them to keep functioning correctly.

Addiction can be a complex condition for many people to recover from, as it entails both a physical and psychological dependence on a substance. It can be caused by a number of factors, many of which are outside a person’s control, so it’s not a simple matter of saying no to a drug.

Resilient Recovery is a world-class treatment center located in Lancaster, California. We offer treatment for a variety of substance use disorders and mental health concerns.

What Is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, molly or simply E, is a synthetic drug that, when taken, can alter a person’s perception. Ecstasy is both a stimulant and a hallucinogen as it has properties of both because it increases a person’s energy like a stimulant but also alters their senses and perception of time like a hallucinogen.

Under the Controlled Substances Act, ecstasy is classified as a Schedule I drug, which means that it has no valid medical value while also carrying a high potential for misuse. However, some research suggests that psychedelic drugs may be able to treat depression to some degree.

MDMA use is relatively rare among the general population, but specific demographics are more vulnerable than others.

Is Ecstasy Addictive?

MDMA can be addictive. It may not be as addictive as other substances, but some people can develop a psychological dependence on the drug just like they would any other. Ecstasy addiction can cause negative effects on mental health, such as anxiety, depression, and other issues, because the use of the drug can deplete the brain’s levels of serotonin. In contrast to drugs such as heroin or cocaine, physical dependence is not typically associated with MDMA.

Symptoms of Ecstasy Addiction

Ecstasy addiction can have several symptoms. Psychological symptoms of addiction can include cravings, and a person may want to use ecstasy even if they’re in a situation where it may be inappropriate. Another symptom of addiction is that they may use ecstasy even if they suffer adverse effects.

In some cases, some people may become obsessed with ecstasy, and it may become their highest priority. They may constantly think about ecstasy and think about when they can use it next.

Physical symptoms of ecstasy addiction can include fatigue if they’re not using the drug. They may also have insomnia or other problems with their sleep, even after the drug’s effects wear off. The use of ecstasy can also cause appetite changes in the people who use the drug.

People who use MDMA can also have health problems, as ecstasy use can put a strain on the body. Using ecstasy can also increase a person’s body temperature. When paired with dehydration and physical exertion, it may cause heat stroke and possibly organ failure.

The behavioral effects of ecstasy use can include engaging in risky acts such as unprotected sex, reckless driving, or polydrug use.

Long-Term Effects of MDMA Use

One of the long-term effects of molly use is developing tolerance to ecstasy, which can lead to a person taking larger doses to achieve the high that they want.

The chronic use of molly can also cause a person to suffer cognitive impairment, such as memory problems and difficulty concentrating. Long-term drug use can also lead to chronic sleep problems such as insomnia.

Stimulant drugs can also increase heart rate and blood pressure. This means that long-term use can put someone at risk for cardiovascular problems. MDMA can also damage the kidneys and the liver, which can lead to organ failure. Taking ecstasy can also weaken a user’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.

Dependence is also a possibility with the repeated use of ecstasy. This can result in withdrawal symptoms if a person ever stops taking the drug.

Ecstasy or MDMA Addiction Treatment Options

Many treatment options can help a person who is addicted to ecstasy recover from their substance use disorder. Some of these treatment options include:

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab is when a person places themselves in a specialized treatment facility. While inside this facility, they will be monitored by a care team, ensuring their safety around the clock. They will also receive intensive care and support for their addiction to ecstasy.

Aftercare

Treatment does not end with inpatient care. This is because drug cravings can persist even after a person completes their treatment. Because of this, aftercare programs are of utmost importance as they can help people affected by addiction maintain their sobriety.

Outpatient Care

Ecstasy users who have mild to moderate substance use disorders may be well-suited to outpatient care. Instead of placing themselves in a residential treatment facility, they will integrate their treatment into their daily lives.

Support Groups

Support groups can be an integral part of recovery as they can offer people affected by addiction a space where they can connect with people who have had similar struggles as them. This community can be a vital support, encouragement, and accountability source.

Holistic Treatment Options 

Holistic treatments can aid in the recovery process in several ways. They can complement traditional treatment methods to enhance recovery. Holistic treatment can also help address the emotional and spiritual aspects of addiction and recovery, which can be beneficial for recovery. Many holistic therapies can also help a person rebuild their physical health, which can deteriorate as a result of taking ecstasy tablets.

We Can Support You During Ecstasy Addiction Treatment

People take drugs for a variety of reasons, and party drugs like ecstasy are taken because people believe that they’ll have a good time while under its influence. That might be true for some people, but the high that a person gets from MDMA is not the only effect that the drug has. 

These effects can be devastating, especially in the case of a long-term habit. But habits can be broken, and at Resilient Recovery, we can help you overcome drug use so you can live your life without being dependent on a tablet. Contact us now, and we can help you begin the recovery process together.