Ecstasy and the brain
Taken in low to moderate doses ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine or MDMA) heightens sensitivity, causes changes and impairment of cognitive, perception, and mental associations. But what happens when ecstasy is taken in higher doses or for longer periods of time? We review here and invite your questions or comments at the end.
How long is long term?
Long-term use = 2 x 10 mg/kg per day when taken consecutively for four days or more.
Chronic = Repetitive pattern following abuse that exhibits negative consequences to your:
- Health status
- Social interactions
- Financial state
What are typical doses of ecstasy?
- Dose range in a series of pills: 10-150 mg
- Average dose: 120 mg
- Typical session: 50-700 mg
- Long term damage: > 1.5-1.8 mg/kg body weight*
Specific effects of ecstasy on the brain
The nervous system
- catatonic stupor
- depersonalization
- heightened sensitivity
- increased responsiveness to touch
- influences sensitivity to pain
- significantly changes the regulation of mood, aggression and sleep
Neurotransmitters
- can damage serotonin producing neurons
- increases dopamine levels
- increases norepinephrine levels
- influences the 5-ht 2 receptors
- stimulant and psychedelic effects
Personality
- agitation
- aggression
- impulsiveness
- mood swings
- restlessness
Behavior
- excited calm or peace
- feelings of well-being
- heightened libido
- panic attacks and severe anxiety
- relaxation and euphoria
Psychological
- amnesia
- confusion
- depression
- disorientation
- drug cravings
- hallucinations
- insomnia
- memory impairment
Reference Sources: NIDA: The neurobiology of ecstasy
NIDA: Drug facts on MDMA, Molly, Ecstasy
NCBI: Human pharmacology of MDMA: pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and disposition.
NCBI: The pharmacology and toxicology of “ecstasy” (MDMA) and related drugs
NHTSA: Methylenedioxy methamphetamine
*Risk of overdose increases when mixed with alcohol, marijuana or methamphetamines
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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