Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a popular party drug known for creating euphoric feelings and enhancing sensory experiences (touch, smell, etc.). These effects have made it a favorite for party-goers but can also lead to potentially serious side effects. Let’s explore the short-term effects of taking ecstasy and why it’s essential to be aware of its risks.
Common Short-Term Effects of Ecstasy
When someone takes ecstasy, the effects typically begin within 30 to 45 minutes and last three hours on average. Here’s an overview of the common short-term effects.
Physical Effects
- Increased Energy: One of Ecstasy’s most notable short-term effects is a surge in energy. This effect is why it is often used at parties, raves, and clubs, where people engage in long periods of dancing.
- Hyperthermia (Increased Body Temperature): Ecstasy can cause a significant increase in body temperature, especially when used in crowded or hot environments. This is known as hyperthermia and can be dangerous if not properly managed.
- Dehydration Due to increased energy levels and hyperthermia, dehydration is a common short-term effect of Ecstasy use. Combined with prolonged physical activity, like dancing, and a hot environment, users may become severely dehydrated.
- Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding: A frequent side effect of Ecstasy is bruxism, or involuntary teeth grinding and jaw clenching. This can cause soreness in the jaw, headaches, and damage to the teeth.
- Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Ecstasy acts as a stimulant, leading to an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. While this can feel invigorating, it can be dangerous for individuals with underlying heart conditions and may lead to cardiovascular issues.
Psychological and Emotional Effects
- Euphoria: One of the most sought-after effects of Ecstasy is the intense feeling of euphoria. Users often describe this sensation as a profound sense of well-being and happiness, which can last for several hours.
- Heightened Sense of Empathy and Emotional Closeness: Ecstasy is often called the “love drug” because it increases emotional closeness, empathy, and connection with others. Users may feel more open, loving, and trusting, enhancing social experiences and creating a sense of deep emotional bonding with those around them.
- Enhanced Sensory Perception: Ecstasy heightens the senses, particularly touch, sound, and visual perception. Music may sound more vibrant, lights appear brighter, and physical sensations are more intense.
- Anxiety and Paranoia: While many users experience euphoria, others may encounter increased anxiety or paranoia, particularly if they are in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable environment. The overstimulation of the brain’s neurotransmitters can also lead to restlessness, nervousness, or agitation.
- Impaired Judgment and Decision-Making: Ecstasy impairs cognitive functions, leading to poor judgment and decision-making. Under the influence of the drug, users may engage in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex or excessive physical exertion, without considering the potential consequences.
Sensory and Cognitive Effects
- Mild Hallucinations: Ecstasy has mild hallucinogenic properties, which can alter visual and auditory perceptions. Users may experience slight distortions in reality, seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, especially in environments with loud music and bright lights.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Ecstasy can make focusing or concentrating on specific tasks difficult. While users may feel more energetic and emotionally connected, their ability to think clearly or follow complex conversations may be diminished.
- Memory Impairment: Even in the short term, Ecstasy can affect memory. Users may find it hard to recall events or details from their experience while under the influence of the drug. This can make it challenging to piece together certain parts of the night or understand the consequences of their actions.
How Does Ecstasy Affect the Brain?
Ecstasy primarily affects the brain by increasing the activity of three neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
- Serotonin: This neurotransmitter regulates mood, sleep, pain, and other functions. Ecstasy causes a significant release of serotonin, which leads to mood elevation and a sense of euphoria. However, the subsequent depletion of serotonin can result in feelings of depression and anxiety after the drug wears off.
- Dopamine: Ecstasy triggers the release of dopamine, contributing to increased energy and reinforcing the drug’s pleasurable effects. This is a key factor in the drug’s addictive potential.
- Norepinephrine: This neurotransmitter increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Risks and Dangers of Short-Term Ecstasy Use
Even short-term use of ecstasy comes with significant risks. While some effects may seem manageable, others can be life-threatening. These are some of the most common risks associated with ecstasy use.
- “Crash” or “Comedown:” Once the effects of Ecstasy wear off, users often experience a “crash,” or comedown, marked by exhaustion, irritability, and low mood. This is due to the depletion of serotonin in the brain, which can result in temporary feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression. The comedown phase can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the individual and the amount of drug used.
- Insomnia: Despite feelings of exhaustion during the comedown, many users find it difficult to sleep. Ecstasy overstimulates the brain, which can lead to insomnia or restless sleep even after the drug’s euphoric effects have faded.
Additionally, using ecstasy regularly may lead to significant mental health issues that can lead to long-term problems. In fact, people who take ecstasy have a higher chance of experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, poor sleep and appetite, depression, paranoia, and other mental health side effects.
Ecstasy can also be especially risky during pregnancy, as evidence suggests it can lead to congenital conditions in the child.
What to Do If Someone Is Experiencing Negative Effects
If someone is experiencing negative effects from Ecstasy (MDMA) use, it’s crucial to act quickly and take appropriate steps to ensure their safety. The drug’s stimulant and hallucinogenic properties can lead to serious health complications, especially if taken in high doses or hot, crowded environments.
Here’s what you can do:
- Move them to a cool and calm environment
- Encourage hydration but avoid excessive water intake
- Help them relax and stay calm
- Monitor their breathing and heart rate
- Gently massage any areas where they feel muscle tension
Call Emergency Services If the person is experiencing any of the following severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately:
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Severe confusion or hallucinations
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Overheating (hyperthermia) that does not improve with cooling measures
- Irregular or rapid heart rate
- Extreme agitation or violent behavior
Be Aware of the Short-Term Side Effects of Ecstasy
While Ecstasy is often seen as a recreational drug, its effects on the brain and body can be profound and dangerous. The long-term risks of cognitive impairment, addiction, and physical health problems often overshadow the short-term benefits of euphoria, emotional openness, and increased energy.
If you or someone you know is using ecstasy or struggling with substance abuse, it’s important to seek help. Contact the Freedom Center today to receive a confidential, free evaluation that will inform you about learning about the treatment options available to you and your loved ones.
