MDMA: The Drug That Isn’t Just for Ravers

Synthesized in the early 1900s, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as “ecstasy,” is a psychoactive drug with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. The majority of people know it as a party drug: something you take to get you dancing all night long at a rave or electronic music festival. But did you know this drug has potential clinical applications? Ecstasy is known for its ability to increase sociability and reduce fear while simultaneously increasing energy and reducing the need for sleep. It does this by increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain – which are the same neurotransmitters affected by most antidepressants. These effects only last about three to six hours depending on dosage; however, MDMA generally has a longer duration than other stimulants like methamphetamine or cocaine because it is metabolized more slowly. Read on to learn more about MDMA – its history, street names, risks of use, effects on the body and mind, overdose symptoms, legal status as well as its potential therapeutic uses.

What Is MDMA?

MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive drug. It is a member of the amphetamine family and is chemically related to both stimulants and hallucinogens. Other examples of amphetamine-type stimulants include methamphetamine, MDA, and MDEA. Examples of hallucinogens include LSD, psilocybin, and DMT. MDMA was first synthesized in 1912 by a German pharmaceutical company trying to create an appetite suppressant. It was not widely used in the medical community until the late 1970s when it was explored as a potential treatment for psychological disorders, relational problems, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In the 1980s, the drug became more popular in the general population, particularly at “rave” parties and dance clubs. This resulted in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration placing MDMA on its list of controlled substances in 1985.

The History Of MDMA

Synthesized in the early 1900s, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as “ecstasy,” is a psychoactive drug with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. The majority of people know it as a party drug: something you take to get you dancing all night long at a rave or electronic music festival. But did you know this drug has potential clinical applications? Ecstasy is known for its ability to increase sociability and reduce fear while simultaneously increasing energy and reducing the need for sleep. It does this by increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain – which are the same neurotransmitters affected by most antidepressants. These effects only last about three to six hours depending on dosage; however, MDMA generally has a longer duration than other stimulants like methamphetamine or cocaine because it is metabolized more slowly.

Street Names

– Ecstasy: The most common street name for MDMA is ecstasy. Tied to the dance culture, this name is also used for other substances like MDA and MDEA. – Molly: Another common name for MDMA is “molly.” This name comes from how the drug is generally sold in powder form, and molly is a slang term for a powdery substance. – Roll: MDMA is also sometimes referred to as “roll.” This name most commonly refers to the feeling of euphoria associated with the drug. – XTC: XTC is another name for MDMA that is less common today. It is believed to be a shortened version of “ecstasy.”

Where Did MDMA Come From?

Like many other drugs, MDMA was first synthesized in a lab. The first recorded synthesis was in 1912 by a pharmaceutical company trying to create an appetite suppressant. MDMA was not widely used in the medical community until the late 1970s when it was explored as a potential treatment for psychological disorders, relational problems, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In the 1980s, the drug became more popular in the general population, particularly at “rave” parties and dance clubs. This resulted in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration placing MDMA on its list of controlled substances in 1985. One of the more interesting facts about MDMA is that it is not naturally produced anywhere in the world. It is completely synthetic. This is true for almost all other drugs as well.

Effects On The Body And Mind

MDMA affects the brain by flooding it with serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These are neurotransmitters that contribute to feelings of pleasure, happiness, and energy. When combined with other drugs, the effects of MDMA can be greatly intensified and prolonged. The effects of MDMA generally last 3 to 6 hours, depending on the dosage and the health of the person taking it. The effects can vary depending on the person and the environment, but the drug is generally associated with feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and a distorted sense of time. Some of the potential effects of MDMA use include: – Increased sociability and feelings of trust – Increased feelings of joy, delight, and pleasure – Dramatic increase in energy and feelings of exhaustion – Increased feelings of empathy towards others – Nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and dizziness – Increased anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks – Flushed skin, sweating, and increased body temperature – Increased heart rate and blood pressure – blurred vision, decreased eye coordination – Dry mouth and throat – Short-term memory loss – Sleep problems – Decreased appetite.

Is MDMA Addictive?

Although MDMA is not considered a physically addictive substance, it does have the potential to be psychologically addictive. A person who uses MDMA over and over again may develop a psychological dependence on the drug which can lead to cravings and compulsive drug-seeking behaviors. If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, there is help available. If you live in the United States, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or go to Findtreatment.samhsa.gov. If you live outside the United States, you can find information and resources at www.iaso.org.

Overdose Symptoms

Overdosing on MDMA is possible, but it is less likely than with other drugs like opioids or benzodiazepines. Even though the risk is lower, it is still important to be aware of the signs of an MDMA overdose. If you suspect someone is overdosing on MDMA, call 9-1-1 or take them to the nearest emergency room immediately. Some signs of an MDMA overdose include: – Severe sweating and high body temperature – Severe dehydration and nausea – Increased heart rate and blood pressure – Seizures – Hallucinations – Paranoia – Psychotic episodes – Panic attacks.

Conclusion

While MDMA is still primarily used as a recreational drug, there is growing evidence that it may be useful as a treatment for psychological disorders like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While more research needs to be done, researchers are hopeful that MDMA will be approved for medical use in the future. If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, there is help available. If you live in the United States, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or go to Findtreatment.samhsa.gov. If you live outside the United States, you can find information and resources at www.iaso.org. ‌ MDMA’s History, Street Names, Effects, Risks of Use, and More | Explores the history and effects of the popular party drug, MDMA. This article also explores the drug’s street names, potential medical applications, and risks of use.