What are the effects of ecstasy on the body and brain?

Drugs have effects on the brain that might be irreversible and cause a lot of damage that can be difficult to fix. Ecstasy or more commonly known as ‘molly’ is one such drug. Ecstasy (MDMA, 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a psychoactive synthetic drug  that gives you a boost of energy. Its main impact is on neurons in the brain that communicate with one another using the neurotransmitter serotonin. The serotonin system is involved in mood regulation, aggression, sexual activity, sleep, and pain sensitivity. It’s known to impart feelings of increased energy, pleasure, emotional warmth, and distorted sensory and time perception.

Forms of ecstasy drug:

• It usually comes in two forms namely tablet and capsule however, other means of consumption are swallowing in liquid form or snorting powder form.
• Ecstasy is made by changing the structure of the amphetamine molecule, unlike other recreational drugs like cocaine and nicotine, which are sourced from plants. Because of how it’s created, its purity varies a lot, and different compounds can readily be mixed into the same tablet.

How ecstasy works on the brain:

Ecstasy influences the functioning of three brain chemicals: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These molecules influence a variety of bodily functions, including energy levels, mood, emotions, and sleep.

• Dopamine—increases energy/activity and works as a reward in the reward system, reinforcing certain actions.
• Norepinephrine – raises heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for patients who have heart or blood vessel problems.
• Serotonin – a neurotransmitter that influences mood, hunger, sleep, and other processes. Hormones that affect sexual arousal and trust are also triggered. The production of significant amounts of serotonin is thought to be responsible for the emotional connection, enhanced mood, and empathy that MDMA users experience.
• Within 45 minutes of taking a dose of ecstasy, the effects start to show.
• People usually feel a greater sense of well-being and emotional warmth as a result of the treatment.
• Other side effects include having more empathy for others and having better sensory sensitivity.
• Ecstasy has effects on memory as well. Chronic ecstasy users perform worse on various types of cognitive and memory activities than nonusers.

How ecstasy works on the body:

• Ecstasy, in excessive dosages, can impair the body’s capacity to regulate temperature. This can cause a rapid rise in body temperature (hyperthermia), which can lead to liver, renal, and cardiovascular system failure, as well as death, on rare but unpredictable occasions.
• Repeated drug usage at short intervals can reach potentially dangerous levels since it can interfere with its own metabolism (breakdown within the body).
• Many of the same dangers exist for users of other stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines.
• It increases heart rate and blood pressure, which are especially dangerous for persons with circulation issues or heart disease.
• Other effects such as muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching, nausea, blurred vision, faintness, chills, or sweating, are all possible symptoms.

MDMA’s effects persist for from 3 to 6 hours, though many users take a second dose as the first’s effects wane. A person may feel the following

over the course of a week after moderate use of the drug:

– Irritability

– Aggression and impulsiveness

– Depression

– Difficulties with sleep

– Anxiety

– Issues with memory and concentration

– Diminished interest in and pleasure from sex decreased appetite

• Overdosing is uncommon, but it can be fatal. Overdosing on ecstasy can cause dizziness, panic attacks, or intense anxiety, as well as high blood pressure and seizures.
• When ecstasy is combined with strenuous physical exercise, it can result in hyperthermia, a potentially dangerous rise in body temperature.

Considering drug abuse it is always advisable to consult best rehab in India that can help one come out of addiction. Psychologists and psychiatrists are trained professionals who are expert in treatment of drug abuse. Rehabilitation is the best option for an individual who wants to quit drugs or alcohol. Best rehabs in India such as Veda rehab and wellness (current blog) is a voluntary, luxury rehab wherein an individual is offered a holistic treatment plan keeping in mind all aspects of wellness.

Written by

Shaili Mehta

Veda Rehab and Wellness