Ecstasy or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a party drug that’s highly accessible, especially at concerts, festivals, and raves. Many people believe it comes with few or no risks, which means they often use it freely and without any awareness of possible side effects. Ecstasy does come with risks, and abuse of this drug is still prevalent with a portion of the population—mostly young people. For those who chronically abuse or become addicted to this and other party drugs, Ecstasy addiction treatment is the safest and most reliable way to begin recovery.
If you or someone you love has slipped from recreational use into an unhealthy relationship with Ecstasy, consider seeking help. At The Right Step Houston, we treat ecstasy misuse and addiction in either an inpatient or outpatient program. Education about the effects of Ecstasy is a critical aspect of treatment, as are evidence-based therapies, peer support, and experiential modalities.
Most Common Party Drugs
Ecstasy is often the first name that comes to mind when thinking about party drugs. Party drugs typically fall into one of three categories. Listed below are some common drugs associated with each category:
- Stimulants – These are commonly known as uppers or speed and ramp up your nervous system. Stimulants that are considered party drugs are cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamine.
- Depressants – Also called downers or sedatives, they slow the central nervous system (CNS). Party drugs in this category include cannabis, benzodiazepines (benzos), and nitrous oxide.
- Hallucinogens – These affect the brain by altering its perception of reality and magnifying sensory experience, including visual and auditory hallucinations. Party drugs in this category include psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ketamine, and Ecstasy.
The term party drug is very misleading. It implies fun and a lack of risk. All of the party drugs listed above come with risks, some of them significant.
The Effects of Ecstasy Abuse
Ecstasy is more than a hallucinogen. It’s also a stimulant and entactogen. This means users experience visual and auditory hallucinations and distortions. They also feel wakefulness and high energy due to stimulant effects. Additionally, there is increased empathy and self-awareness from entactogen effects.
However, these elements of an ecstasy high come with risks:
- Overheating – Known as hyperthermia, this refers to a high body temperature that’s in the danger zone. The body’s internal system for regulating heat goes offline—and heatstroke, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney failure can result.
- High blood pressure, arrhythmia, and other cardiovascular effects – Acute or long-term ecstasy abuse can lead to several bad outcomes. In addition to the ones already listed, aortic dissection, heart attack, and heart failure due to high body temperatures are also possible.
- Psychological damage – Confusion, paranoia, anxiety, and depression can all result from ecstasy abuse. Infrequent use may not cause these to be permanent, but chronic use could lead to lasting concerns. Long-term psychological effects of Ecstasy can include chronic suicidality.
- Behavioral and mood dysfunction – From detachment or depersonalization to poor judgment and decreased inhibitions, these issues can be permanent.
- Cognitive damage – This might include memory loss or difficulty concentrating.
When contaminants are present in Ecstasy, the effects can be even more unpredictable. If you’re one of many who believe Ecstasy is a harmless party drug, you must realize that’s not true. The occasional recreational use of party drugs like Ecstasy can quickly become chronic. Controlling the side effects of unregulated drugs like Ecstasy and other party drugs is impossible. Don’t put your brain and health at risk—seek addiction treatment.
Get Started with Ecstasy Addiction Treatment at The Right Step Houston Today
In our ecstasy addiction treatment program, you’ll receive top-level, evidence-based care. Whether you enroll in inpatient or outpatient rehab, The Right Step Houston will prioritize your health and sobriety. Reach out today to get started on your recovery journey. Submit our online contact form or call 1.844.768.0169 today.