Ecstasy is an illegal designer drug that has raised warning flags due to its recreational use. Also known as MDMA, ecstasy temporarily changes the chemistry of the brain to create feelings of well-being and contentedness. This amphetamine does not necessarily induce sexual feelings but rather fosters emotional bonds and empathy. Long-term use of the drug may permanently damage parts of the brain, although the scope of these effects is not well understood.
Pleasurable Effects
The reason why millions of people take ecstasy for recreational use is its powerful ability to relieve anxiety, encourage feelings of warmth, and induce intellectual stimulation. Originally users took ecstasy, or "X," to heighten their experiences at dances and raves and are now combining it with other drugs. Users report enhanced senses, including sight, hearing and especially touch, which may be why the term "ecstasy" stuck. Ecstasy has stimulant-like properties, so users often feel energized for hours. Although pleasurable, these effects come at a heavy cost.
Negative Effects
Not everyone has an enjoyable time on MDMA. Common effects during intoxication include sweating, chills, tension in the jaw and increased heart rate. Some people also may feel more depressed and anxious than normal. In cases of overdose, users experience panic attacks, high blood pressure, fainting and seizures. In rare cases, ecstasy has led to cardiovascular failure and death. Ecstasy is considered addictive like most other amphetamines.
After Effects
Because MDMA works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, any bodily system affected by serotonin, and there are many, can be compromised after an ecstasy "trip." The noticeable effects of ecstasy can last up to a week after dosing. Many experience depression, sluggishness and anxiety. Other common after effects include trouble sleeping and memory problems.
Long-Term Effects
MDMA is also considered a dangerous drug because of its potential long-term effects. Early animal research indicated that brain receptors remain damaged up to 7 years after only 4 days of MDMA exposure, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse. This study and other animal studies like it have been criticized as the dosages used in them are more than the average user ever takes. In response, a 2008 article published in the journal "Brain" suggests that brain damage can be detected even in novel users who only used the drug once. The researchers conclude, "Although we do not know yet whether these effects are reversible or not, we cannot exclude that ecstasy even in low doses is neurotoxic to the brain."
Healing Effects?
Some medical doctors argue that MDMA may have healing effects when used in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, according to the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies. While controversial, this research has been approved by the FDA. Researchers suggests that sufferers of post-traumatic stress disorder may benefit from single doses of MDMA taken in a clinic setting and followed up with "reintegration" sessions. While promising, psychiatrists admit that more research is needed to weigh the potential psychological benefits of MDMA versus its ill effects.
