Is MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly) Addictive?
Key Takeaways
- MDMA is addictive and a Schedule I drug - Jump to Section
- Signs include regular use, cravings, and dependency on MDMA - Jump to Section
- MDMA is a stimulant drug known as ecstasy or molly, affecting mood and perception - Jump to Section
- MDMA use poses risks such as mood disorders and high blood pressure - Jump to Section
- Treatment options include therapy and rehabilitation programs - Jump to Section
Is MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly) Addictive?
Yes, MDMA is addictive.
MDMA is considered a Schedule I drug. This means that it has a high potential for abuse. It also means that it’s not a drug that’s considered for medicinal purposes.1
According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Schedule I drugs are defined as “drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Other examples of Schedule I drugs include heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and peyote.1
MDMA isn’t as addictive as some other drugs in this category, but it still can be addictive for some users. MDMA can lead to a substance use disorder, which should be taken seriously.
MDMA becomes addictive from the moment it’s consumed. Users can feel addicted to the euphoric high of MDMA at first. With regular use, their bodies can rely on the chemicals that make up ecstasy.
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Signs of MDMA Addiction
The signs of MDMA addiction may not always be obvious. However, if you or someone you know uses MDMA, knowing these signs is important.
These are a few of the most common signs of ecstasy addiction:
- Regular use of MDMA
- Strong cravings for MDMA
- Chronic ecstasy abuse
- Hallucinations
- Emotional effects like anxiety or depression
- A feeling of dependency on MDMA to enjoy social activities
- Headaches or other physical symptoms when not using MDMA
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What is MDMA?
MDMA is a popular drug in nightclubs, festivals, and parties. MDMA stands for methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. It’s commonly known as molly or ecstasy.
About 2.6 million Americans reported using MDMA in 2020. Many considered it a “party drug” or a “club drug” that doesn’t have negative effects or real consequences, but they’re wrong.4
MDMA is a man-made drug that affects mood and perception. It’s a stimulant that has hallucinogenic properties. It’s mostly taken as a pill but comes in powder and liquid form.4
While most users don’t realize that MDMA is addictive, it is. Ecstasy use can lead to ecstasy abuse. Addiction is real and can cause serious consequences.
What Does MDMA Do to Your Mind and Body?
MDMA can take a serious toll on your mind and body.
Some side effects of MDMA include the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Psychotic episodes
- Aggression
- Sleep disorders
- Appetite changes
- Attention problems
- Hazy memory
- Impulsiveness
An MDMA overdose can also cause death.
Risks and Side Effects of MDMA Use
MDMA is a risky drug with many side effects.
Taking MDMA can have the following effects on your body:
- Euphoria
- Heightened senses
- Feelings of calm
- Bursts of high energy
- Extreme empathy for others
- Lowered inhibitions
- Changes to libido and sexual arousal
- Distorted perception of time
- Enhanced senses
While MDMA might feel good in the moment, many risks come with these effects. Ecstasy users might have the following negative consequences:
- Mood disorders like anxiety and depression
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Physical dependence on the drug to feel physically or mentally well
- Addiction from severe substance abuse
- Increased risk of substance use disorders with other substances
- Damage to the nervous system
- Strain on personal relationships
- Sexually transmitted infections due to lowered inhibitions
- Withdrawal symptoms if trying to quit
- Death from ecstasy overdose
The effects of MDMA can last a week or even long after taking it.3
People with a family history of substance abuse are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to MDMA.2
In fact, studies suggest that having a family history of a drug disorder is one of the most significant risk factors for developing a drug disorder.2
Certain environmental factors can also pose risk factors. For example, boys and men tend to use MDMA more. Lifetime use of alcohol, cigarettes, or marijuana also increases the likelihood of ecstasy use.5
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Treatment for MDMA Addiction
Treatment for MDMA addiction is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance abuse disorder, seek professional help.
Treatment options include but aren’t limited to, the following:6
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Holistic therapy
- Inpatient rehabilitation
- Outpatient rehabilitation
- Support groups
Different treatment options work for different people. Whatever option you choose, make sure to give it a real chance. The journey to recovery can take time, and it’s important to navigate it with professional help.
Forgoing treatment and trying to recover from addiction alone can be dangerous and even deadly. Withdrawal symptoms from drugs or alcohol can have fatal effects.
If someone you know is exhibiting signs of an MDMA overdose or severe withdrawal symptoms, contact emergency medical help immediately.
While MDMA isn’t as addictive as other drugs, and it’s considered a common drug in nightlife party scenes, it should be taken seriously.
Summary
MDMA, also known as ecstasy or “molly,” is an addictive substance. It’s considered a Schedule I drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse.
MDMA has multiple short and long-term side effects on the mind and body. It also isn’t considered for medicinal purposes.
If someone is showing signs of an MDMA addiction, seek medical attention. This is especially true if you notice any signs of an overdose.
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- “Drug Scheduling.” DEA.
- “Ecstasy.” Jama Network.
- “Ecstasy-Related Emergency Department Visits by Young People Increased Between 2005 and 2011; Alcohol Involvement Remains a Concern.” SAMHSA.
- “MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly) DrugFacts.” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Palamar, Joseph J, and Dimitra Kamboukos. “An Examination of Sociodemographic Correlates of Ecstasy Use among High School Seniors in the United States.” Substance Use & Misuse, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- “Treatment.” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
