SUBSTANCE INFO
7 . MDMA Nicknamed the “love drug,” ecstasy is known for the feelings of warmth and empathy experienced while on the drug, as well as the sense of energy and alertness it produces in users.
Physical Effects: • Increased heart rate, hyperactivity, excess energy • Dehydration • Nausea and loss of appetite • Cleanching of jaw muscles
Negative Effects:
Mental Effects: • Mild distortions of perception • Psychological dependence • Withdrawal from ecstacy causes fatigue and depression
The reason ecstasy produces such a noticeable high is because it stimulates production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that controls mood. However, it doesn’t take the brain too long to figure out it is out of balance, so it reacts by preventing serotonin from being absorbed by the brain. Because serotonin is needed to keep our moods balanced, in its absence we feel down and depressed. 36
Users often experience jitters and teeth clenching. Overdose can lead to hypertension and kidney failure.
Dangerous Combinations with Other Drugs:
MDMA can be dangerous if taken in conjunction with antidepressants that are MAO inhibitors. It also should not be taken with alcohol.
How MDMA Works in the Brain:
MDMA increases levels of serotonin and makes it more available to the brain, which leads to the notorious mood boosting properties of the drug. However, repeated use of ecstasy leads to possible serotonin loss, which feels like chronic depression. Furthermore, ecstasy use – especially repeated use of high doses – has been responsible for a number of psychiatric/ psychological problems, such as panic attacks and paranoia.
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