MDMA Drug Rehab
MDMA, a drug more commonly known as “ecstasy,” is a synthetic, neurotoxic, psychoactive and addictive drug. It was first developed as an appetite suppressant in Germany the 1960′s. It is chemically similar to methamphetamine and mescaline, and it has been described as “this generation’s LSD.” While MDMA is usually taken in pill form, occasionally it is chopped into powder and snorted. In even rarer cases it is smoked or taken intravenously. MDMA first rose to popularity within the “rave” and electronica music scene in the 1990′s.
People who have taken MDMA report feelings of euphoria and happiness, however these feelings are artificially induced by the drug as serotonin levels spike. MDMA users have various motives for taking it, ranging from wanting these positive, expansive feelings in order to celebrate, as a means of escape, or wanting to alleviate social anxiety while out in public. Often thought of as a recreational “party drug,” the addictive element can creep in undetected for some time.
Dangers of MDMA
One of the most dangerous misperceptions about MDMA is that it is not as harmful as other street drugs such as cocaine and heroin. Nothing could be further from the truth. Especially with the street version of the drug, it is sometimes comprised of a variety of substances and chemicals. Speed, heroin and even poison have been found in MDMA.
The physical dangers of MDMA use are varied and frightening. It can dramatically affect heart rate and blood pressure as well as their body’s ability to regulate its temperature. It can affect metabolism dramatically, and users of the drug seem to be prone to dehydration. Other symptoms that can arise are involuntary teeth-clenching, nausea, blurred vision, muscle tension, chills, profuse sweating or feeling faint.
There are also a number of psychological effects associated with MDMA. These can persist for days or even weeks after taking the drug. These effects include cognitive confusion, memory loss, insomnia, severe cravings for more of the drug, severe anxiety, depression, mood swings, erratic behavior and paranoia.
How MDMA Works
It is believed that the “high” of MDMA is due to artificially increased levels of serotonin production. Serotonin is a neuropeptide that plays a major role in helping to the body and brain to regulate mood, levels of aggression, sexual drive, sleep cycles and easing sensitivity to pain. Use of MDMA can throw off the body’s natural production of serotonin, leading to problems in any or all of these areas of functioning.
Studies done about MDMA are showing some alarming effects. In some cases, use of the drug can lead to a permanent serotonin deficiency. The neurons in the brain responsible for serotonin production can be impaired on a long-term basis. For this reason, MDMA drug rehab puts an emphasis on monitoring the patient for signs of depression, which is a common result of chronic MDMA usage. Trained professionals have learned what to expect as MDMA users stop using the drug and begin to heal physically and emotionally.
MDMA is a relatively new drug, and no one is sure of the long term effects decades after use. With time, it is possible that the brain could regenerate itself. The body has extraordinary healing capacity, especially when the mind and spirit are focused on a desired positive outcome. As with other drug rehab programs, effective MDMA drug rehab will include extensive behavioral and/or cognitive therapy. With any addiction, it is important to bring to light the emotional, existential or spiritual crisis that may underlie the drug use. MDMA is often used to “escape reality,” so when emotional healing finally happens, the urge to self-medicate often diminishes.
Contact Delray Recovery Center Today
If you or someone you care for is currently caught up in the destructive grip of addiction, please seek help with Delray Recovery Center. We are an addiction treatment provider that understands the struggle. We know the suffering of the addict and the heartache of the families involved.
Call us today at the toll free number at the top of the page. If you are fearful of voicing the problem, please simply fill out our form. Any measure of contact is a step in the right direction.
