MDMA (Ecstasy)

MDMA is an empathogen drug - a psychoactive drug that produces feeling of emotional connection and openness. When its called MDMA it is usually in pwdered form. When taken in tablet form it is often called Ecstasy, ‘E’ or pills. It is also known as molly or mandy depending on where you live in the world.

Ecstasy comes in pill or powder form. When it’s a powder it’s called by its chemical name, MDMA, but it’s the same drug as ecstasy.

Ecstasy pills can be white, coloured, round, square or pressed into any shape. Some pills have designs stamped into them, like well known company logos that the pills are then named after.

Ecstasy powder looks like white/grey crystals and is called MDMA, mandy or MD.

Ecstasy pills are usually swallowed and MDMA is usually rubbed (dabbed) into the user’s gums. They both taste bitter and unpleasant.

taken from the talk to frank website talktofrank

Taking MDMA (ecstasy) makes you feel very happy! Probably how it got the name ecstasy! People who use it feel ‘loved up’ – often feeling love and affection for the people they're with - and the strangers around them.

Ecstasy can also make people feel more in tune with their surroundings, energised, focused and alert. It can also make the music seem more intense, which is why people sometimes take it in nightclubs and at parties.

Lots of people feel very chatty and uninhibited on ecstasy, which makes them open up and talk about things they might not do normally.

Its not always love and hugs though, some users can experience anxiety, panic attacks, confused episodes, paranoia and even psychosis.

It also causes your pupils to dilate, bodily tingling sensations and a tightening or moving of the jaw muscles (gurning). This is basically lots of repetitive mouth movements, stretching wide open and sideways.

MDMA raises your body temperature and heartbeat and body temperature.

It depends on your size, how much you have taken and if you have any other drugs in your system.

If you have taken an ecstasy tablet orally (swallowed), it usually takes 30 minutes to kick in, but it could take as little as 20 minutes, or it may take over an hour or more. Some other (more dangerous) drugs that are mis-sold as ecstasy can take longer to kick in.

It is important to give the drug time to work before increasing the dose (taking another).

People who have taken MDMA often feel high for 2 to 4 hours. You might still experience some physical effects, like a fast heart beat or insomnia (not being able to sleep), for a few hours after you stop feeling high – especially if you take a lot.

Some people find that ecstasy makes them feel down and low in mood the next day, known as a ‘comedown’. This can last for several days.

The strength of any ecstasy pill is always unpredictable. If you do decide to take ecstasy, you should start by taking half or even a quarter of the pill and then wait for the effects to kick in before taking anymore – you may find that this is enough.

If you’re taking MDMA, start by dabbing a small amount of powder only, then wait for the effects to kick in.

Use of ecstasy has been linked to liver, kidney and heart problems.

Anyone with a heart condition, blood pressure problems, epilepsy or asthma can have a very dangerous reaction to the drug.

Ecstasy affects the body's temperature control. Dancing for long periods in a hot atmosphere, like a club, increases the chances of overheating and dehydration. Users should take regular breaks from the dance floor to cool down and watch out for any mates who are on it – as they might not realise they're in danger of overheating or getting dehydrated.

Drinking too much (including water) can also be dangerous. This is because ecstasy can cause the body to release a hormone which stops it making urine. If you drink too quickly you might affect your body's salt balance, which can be as deadly as not drinking enough water.

Users should sip no more than a pint of water or non-alcoholic drink every hour.

Evidence suggests that long-term users can suffer from memory problems and may develop depression and anxiety.

There’s no way of knowing what’s inside your ecstasy pill or MDMA powder until you've taken it.

Ecstasy pills are sometimes cut with amphetamines (like speed), caffeine and other substances that have some similar effects but are cheaper to produce. Some pills are cut with stimulants that are slower to kick in than MDMA, and so users have taken more of the pill (or pills) and then overdosed.

MDMA powder can also be cut with other ingredients. You should always start by taking a very small amount to begin with and wait for the effects to kick in before deciding whether to take anymore.

This information is taken from the website talktofrank

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have a problem with ecstasy, it's essential to take proactive steps to address the issue and seek help. Here are some recommended actions:

Talk to someone you trust: Reach out to a close friend, family member, or a supportive person you can confide in about your concerns. Sharing your worries with someone can be the first step towards seeking help.

If you suspect that you have a problem with ecstasy, it's essential to stop using the drug. Continued use can exacerbate the issue and lead to further complications.

Contact Response on 0151 666 4123

Learn more about MDMA, its effects, and the potential consequences of its misuse. Understanding the risks associated with MDMA can reinforce your commitment to seeking help.

Engage in activities that promote overall well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and healthy social interactions. Taking care of your physical and mental health can contribute to your recovery.