MDMA (also known as Molly or “ecstasy”) is a potent drug that alters one’s mental states to produce short-term “euphoria” while having long-lasting cognitive and physical effects on the individual. Studying the effects of MDMA on the brain and body has proven that while there may be a few therapeutic benefits, it adversely affects one’s health in the long run. If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, reach out to San Antonio Recovery Center for immediate MDMA addiction treatment.
The short-term effects of MDMA on the brain include mood enhancement, increased sensory perception, and a feeling of extreme happiness or euphoria. As a result, it is very popular among club-goers and ravers. Since MDMA is often recreationally consumed with alcohol and other drugs, it does significant damage to one’s health, putting people at high risk.
Contact us at 866.957.7885 to learn more about our addiction treatment programs and services.
Effects of MDMA on the Brain and Body
MDMA primarily works by releasing high amounts of three neurotransmitters in the brain: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These hormones are crucial in regulating one’s mood, sleep cycle, digestion, pain control, and nervous system functions.
Once the effects of Molly wear off, the depletion of these neurotransmitters causes long-lasting damage to the brain’s neurons as well as to vital bodily functions.
Effects of MDMA on the Brain
The short-term effects of MDMA on the brain include:
- Improved mood
- Extreme happiness and pleasant sensations
- Increased appetite and sexual desire
- Enhanced sensory perceptions
- Increased sense of empathy
Owing to the “happy” feeling, the individual may feel more social and outgoing than usual, leading to closer bonding with others and sharing of positive memories and experiences. Due to the pleasurable sensations produced, MDMA is considered a “party drug” and is frequently consumed in clubs and celebrations.
However, the unpleasant after-effects set in once the “high” wears off. These include:
- Depression
- Irritability
- Lethargy
- Confusion
- Anxiety
Prolonged use of MDMA drastically affects brain function. Some of the long-term effects of MDMA on the brain include:
- Depression
- Mood disorders
- Impaired attention and memory
- Decreased cognitive function
Effects of MDMA on the Body
Since neurotransmitters are responsible for the body’s functioning, a shortage in production can affect the body and lead to long-term health complications.
The immediate short-term effects of MDMA on the body include:
- Sweating
- Dehydration
- Involuntary jaw-clenching
- Muscle cramping
- Agitation
- Restless legs
- Hypothermia (in rare cases)
Meanwhile, some of the long-term health effects of MDMA on the body include:
- Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Muscle tensing
- Chills and sweats
- Sleep disturbance
- Loss of appetite
Other Long-Term Effects of Molly
Prolonged use of Molly has led to unwanted side effects, such as the following:
- It affects the brain’s ability to process certain kinds of visual information
- It impairs the area of the brain linked to impulse control, leading to addiction and other substance use disorders
- In the long run, it may also affect one’s sexual arousal
- It even affects the brains of unborn children of pregnant individuals who recreationally consume the drug.
Find Help and Healing at San Antonio Recovery Center
At SARC, we treat MDMA addiction and other substance use disorders with medication-assisted treatment (MAT), evidence-based therapies (EBT), and other holistic practices.
We provide a full continuum of care from detox to aftercare, with both residential and outpatient treatment options. We strive to create a safe, welcoming and comfortable space for clients to commence treatment quickly. With the 12-step program, our recovering patients can embark on the road to independence and self-motivation and even mentor others in the early stages of treatment.
A better and more beautiful life awaits you. Call us at 866.957.7885 and get help today.
