Long-Term Effects of Ecstasy Abuse

Ecstasy is an illegal synthetic drug. This recreational drug can cause pleasurable effects, including increased energy and feelings of euphoria. Studies from 2020 show that ecstasy use is rising in the United States, with over 2.5 million people reporting using it in the previous year. More recent research suggests that over 18 million people in the US reported trying ecstasy at least once in their lifetime.

Ecstasy affects the brain and body in many ways. Some of the short-term effects of ecstasy can be immediately dangerous. Ecstasy abuse can also lead to serious, long-term health issues.

This article will explore the long-term effects of ecstasy abuse. You will learn:

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find the holistic treatment and recovery support you need at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our treatment specialists to explore our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is a slang term for the pill form of a drug called 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA). Ecstasy tablets may also contain amphetamines, cocaine, ketamine, or other stimulants. People may snort the powdered form of MDMA.

Ecstasy has effects that are similar to other drugs, including amphetamines and LSD. People may experience hallucinogenic and stimulant side effects. Common side effects of ecstasy include:

• Increased energy
• Deeper empathy
• More intense pleasure
• Emotional well-being
• Increased sexual feelings
• A sense of closeness or connectedness with others

These effects result from an increase in brain chemicals, including serotonin and dopamine. Effects typically begin within about 20 minutes of ingesting the drug and last up to six hours.

While users take ecstasy for its pleasurable effects, this drug can cause unwanted or dangerous side effects, including:

• Dangerously elevated body temperature
• Cognitive impairments
• Reduced inhibitions and judgment
• Nausea
• Blurry vision
• Excessive sweating
• Muscle cramping
• Chills
• Tremors
• Time distortion

People commonly use ecstasy in hot, crowded environments like concerts, clubs, or festivals. The drug’s effects and a warm environment increase the risk of overheating and dehydration. People may have serious or life-threatening health problems while using ecstasy, including:

• Fainting
• Liver damage
• Kidney failure
• Seizures
• Heart failure

People may also accidentally ingest other drugs, including ketamine, opioids, or fentanyl sold as ecstasy. This puts people at risk of overdose and other severe complications.

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The Long-Term Effects of Ecstasy Abuse

Ecstasy abuse can be immediately dangerous. Long-term abuse can also lead to serious health problems.

Some of the long-term effects of ecstasy abuse include:

• Brain damage
• Cognitive impairments
• Memory issues
• Mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety
• Cardiovascular issues
• Liver and kidney damage
• Insomnia

Addiction is also a severe, long-term risk of ecstasy abuse. People may develop an addiction to ecstasy after a long period of abuse.

But how does ecstasy abuse lead to addiction?

Ecstasy affects neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) involved in pain relief, pleasure, and reward. Substances that affect these chemicals can alter a person’s thoughts and behaviors. It may be very challenging for people to stop using them once they start.

People who begin using ecstasy may eventually need high doses to get the effects they want. Addiction experts call this “tolerance.” Ecstasy users may become anxious if they do not have the drug or cannot use it. They may begin to believe they cannot feel good or enjoy things without ecstasy.

It can be very challenging for people to stop taking ecstasy when they choose to. Many people require professional treatment to stop using this drug and develop the skills to avoid relapse.

Treating Ecstasy Addiction

Ecstasy addiction can change a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. People with ecstasy addiction may:

• Need more of the drug to get the effects they want
• Continue using ecstasy, even when it causes social, legal, or financial problems
• Spend a lot of time, money, and energy getting and using ecstasy
• Neglect their responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Experience cravings for ecstasy

Comprehensive addiction treatment programs address the roots of substance abuse. An ecstasy addiction treatment program might include:

• Screenings and assessments
• Medical detox programs
• Medication management
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies like nutrition support, mindfulness, exercise, and creative expression
• Aftercare planning

These therapies can help people identify and overcome the behavioral, psychological, and physical aspects of addiction. Then, people can work toward lifelong addiction recovery.

Find Addiction Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with ecstasy abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find the support and treatment you need at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs or to schedule your first appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): MDMA (Ecstasy) Abuse
2. Science Direct: Long-term ecstasy use and the management of work and relationships
3. National Institute of Health (NIH): The harmful health effects of recreational ecstasy: a systematic review of observational evidence