Ecstasy (MDMA) is a psychoactive drug that causes stimulant and hallucinogenic effects. It became popular in the 1980s when people began using this drug at parties and raves. Surveys show that millions of people in the United States still use it.

Ecstasy has serious short and long-term effects, including physical dependence. Many people who develop dependence require professional treatment to stop using it and avoid relapse.

This article will explore how long it takes for your body to eliminate ecstasy.

If you or someone you love struggle with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find the compassionate treatment and support you need at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.

What is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is a slang term for 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA). Ecstasy is a synthetic psychoactive drug containing chemical compounds that produce stimulant and hallucinogenic effects.

While ecstasy can cause euphoric and energizing effects, it can also cause serious health risks. People may suffer from overheating, dehydration, seizures, and other dangerous conditions when using ecstasy. People who abuse ecstasy or develop an addiction to it must seek treatment to help them stop using this dangerous drug.

Side Effects and Risks of Ecstasy

Ecstasy has psychoactive and hallucinogenic effects that people may enjoy, including:

• Distorted sense of time
• Euphoria
• Increased energy
• Deeper empathy
• A feeling of being connected or close to others
• Heightened pleasure
• Increased emotional awareness or openness

However, people may also experience unwanted or dangerous effects, including:

• Blurred vision
• Chills
• Cognitive impairment
• Elevated body temperature
• Memory problems
• Muscle cramping
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Tremors

People often use ecstasy in crowded, warm environments like clubs, parties, and festivals. This and the side effects of ecstasy can lead to dangerously elevated body temperatures. Without treatment, people are at risk of fainting, seizures, and severe organ damage.

People who take ecstasy frequently may develop symptoms of addiction, including:

• Needing larger doses to get the desired effects
• Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using ecstasy
• Having legal, social, or financial trouble related to ecstasy abuse
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it
• Having cravings for ecstasy
• Doing dangerous things while using ecstasy, such as driving or having unprotected sex

People who develop ecstasy addiction may not be able to stop using it on their own. Many require comprehensive treatment to quit and ongoing support to avoid relapse.

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How Long Does Ecstasy Stay in Your System?

Ecstasy’s effects typically begin within about 30 minutes of ingesting it. People who take high doses or who take it frequently may develop physical dependence. People who stop taking ecstasy may experience withdrawal symptoms.

In many cases, withdrawal symptoms may begin within 24 hours of a person’s last dose. The amount of time it takes the body to clear ecstasy and other substances can depend on:

• A person’s metabolism
• Age
• Weight and body composition
• General health
• Other substances the person used at the same time
• The dosage they took
• Dosage frequency

Typically, people experience withdrawal symptoms for three to five days, depending on these and other factors. However, drug testing methods may detect ecstasy and its metabolites for some time afterward.

How Long Can Drug Tests Detect MDMA in Your System?

The body begins to metabolize MDMA as soon as someone ingests it. Many factors can affect how long it stays in the body.

Drug test detection windows can vary from person to person. However, here is an estimate of the detection times for some drug testing methods.

Urine test

Urine testing is the most common form of drug screening. Ecstasy may be detected in urine for up to five days after a person’s last dose. Higher doses or frequent use may increase the detection window on a urine test.

Blood test

Blood testing may detect ecstasy for up to three days after a person’s last dose.

Hair follicle test

Hair testing is uncommon but has a long detection window. Hair testing may detect ecstasy for up to 90 days after your last use.

Saliva test

Saliva testing may detect ecstasy for up to three days after someone stops taking it.

If you or a loved one are concerned about passing a drug test, it may be a sign you require professional addiction treatment. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about recognizing ecstasy abuse and addiction.

Find Treatment Now

Ecstasy addiction treatment includes evidence-based therapies and holistic treatments to address the roots of substance use. If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.

References:

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): The pharmacology and toxicology of “ecstasy” (MDMA) and related drugs
3. NIH: Urinary MDMA, MDA, HMMA, and HMA Excretion Following Controlled MDMA Administration to Humans