Ecstasy
MDMA is the abbreviation for 3-4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, the chemical we popularly call ECSTASY.
What is ecstasy or MDMA ?
MDMA is the abbreviation of 3-4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine , the chemical substance popularly called ECSTASY, it possesses “entactogenic” stimulant psychoactive effects ; It acts mainly on the emotional sphere, inducing deep feelings of well -being, self-acceptance and sensitive closeness to others . Consumers report the appearance of euphoria , loquacity , disinhibition , joy , relaxation , sensuality and carefree .
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A series of alterations also appear, mainly in perception, at the visual , auditory , tactile and temporal level (loss of notion of time) , although it is not possible to speak of hallucinations, but they usually correspond to illusions . Like other amphetamine derivatives, it has anorectic effects (suppression of hunger).
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For recommendations for before, during and after ecstasy use, click here.
How does ecstasy or MDMA affect the brain?
The mechanism of action of MDMA is complex and not fully understood. It is known to be very similar, on a molecular level, to amphetamine. Both substances act on serotonergic , noradrenergic and dopaminergic endings (MDMA mainly on serotonergic ones).
The administration of a dose of MDMA produces an acute release of the neurotransmitter into the synaptic space, increasing the concentrations of serotonin , but also those of dopamine and norepinephrine .
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The emotional and social effects of MDMA are probably caused, directly or indirectly, by the release of large amounts of serotonin . The feeling of pleasure is derived from the release of dopamine . These neurotransmitters trigger the release of the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin , which play an important role in the typical feelings of empathy and euphoria produced by ecstasy.
When should I not use ecstasy or MDMA ?
History of physical illness
Do not consume if you have a history of cardiovascular, liver, kidney disease, hypertension, hypoglycemia, diabetes, glaucoma or you are taking antiretroviral drugs.
History of mental illness
Do not consume if you have a history of mental illness such as psychotic, anxiety or mood disorders (depression, mania or bipolarity).
What are the routes of administration of ecstasy or MDMA?
MDMA is commonly taken by mouth, usually in capsules or pills ; Although there is also a record of snorted consumption (through the nose), it is not recommended since it causes damage to the nasal mucosa.
What is the safe dose of ecstasy or MDMA ? And how often can it be consumed to reduce risks?
According to Energy Control, the risk of neurotoxicity from ecstasy consumption is associated with habitual consumption of more than once in an average of 30 - 40 days .
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It is not recommended to consume doses greater than 175mg in a period of 6 weeks
Not more than 80 doses throughout life.
If the substance is not known, it is recommended to dose it by dividing it into 4 or 2 parts, consume a first dose and after 1 hour consider whether you want to consume a little more. If the substance is already known, it is recommended to take a single dose.
What if I regularly use ecstasy or MDMA?
Although research is scarce and inconclusive , evidence of toxicity and neurotoxicity from MDMA use has been found . There are several hypotheses about the mechanism that produces neurotoxicity:
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The possible formation of a toxic metabolite of MDMA, either serotonin or dopamine.
It has also been suggested that MDMA-induced hyperthermia may be partly responsible for axonal degeneration (damage to nerve endings).
What are the long-term effects of using ecstasy or MDMA ?
Administration in animals at high or repeated doses produces a reduction in the concentration of serotonin . It has been possible to demonstrate an alteration of the axons (nerve endings responsible for transmitting messages from neura to neuron) in serotonergic neurons showing a very important impoverishment in some brain areas.
These lesions appear reversible, but the regenerated axons are structurally abnormal . This is related to a possible increase in the presence of psychiatric pathology in ecstasy users, but the data are scarce and not entirely conclusive.
Some studies report the appearance of psychiatric disorders after the use of ecstasy, such as depression , psychotic disorders, cognitive disorders , bulimic episodes , difficulty with impulse control , panic attacks and social phobia . Recreational use of ecstasy has also been associated with certain memory deficits.
How long does it take for ecstasy or MDMA to leave my body?
There is scientific evidence of traces in saliva up to 10 hours after consumption of an average dose; in urine and blood it may take up to 48 hours to be eliminated and in hair and nails up to 10 days. This may vary depending on the purity of the substance, the person's substance use pattern, their weight and height, their metabolism, and hydration and nutrition before, during and after consumption.
Can I develop an addiction to ecstasy or MDMA ?
So far there is no scientific evidence to show that a person can be addicted to ecstasy since dependence symptoms such as withdrawal symptoms are not recorded when they stop consuming, however, some consumers prefer to stop consuming, arguing that repeated use produces a decrease in the pleasant effects and an increase in the unpleasant effects, which means that there is an increase in the body's tolerance to the substance , which also increases the possibility of poisoning if high doses are consumed to achieve the same effects .
Although there is no evidence of physical dependence on ecstasy, it can happen that the person has strong desires to consume, especially because of the reinforcement of the consumption situations that are usually partying and with friends.
Psychoactive alerts about ecstasy or MDMA in Colombia
On January 24, 2018, pills have been found that do not contain MDMA and some are adulterated with cathinones (butyline, ethylone and methylone), methamphetamines, amphetamines and caffeine.
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March 22, 2018 received “six reports of people who have had serious poisonings after having consumed pills that they had purchased assuming it was ecstasy, also people who had consumed supposed MDMA crystals that were not. Symptoms: Chills, tachycardia, nausea, dizziness, increased temperature, nasal bleeding, purple lips, paranoia, seizures, dyspnea (shortness of breath), stomach pain Toxicological tests reported the presence of amphetamine-type substances with a high presence of methamphetamine ”.
If you want to know some recommendations to reduce risks and damages in consumption
ecstasy don't miss our blog post.
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General recommendations for the consumption of psychoactive substances:
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📌Do not consume any psychoactive substance, if you do so other than on a regular basis.
📌 Take care of yourself physically before, during and after consumption through nutrition and hydration.
📌Implement detoxification strategies the days after consumption
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🔥 Warning signs 🔥
If you feel the need to increase the dose to feel the effects you initially felt, give yourself a break and do not consume for a long time, this will decrease tolerance, keep it there through non-habitual consumption, that is, do not take part of your routine or that the consumption does not present a pattern.
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💡Do you want to detox? At # deliberate we have designed a DETOX program at home: 7 days with nutritional advice, physical activity, recipes (breakfast, lunch and dinner), mindfulness exercises, imagery exercises and steam baths; Give your body a detoxification day once every six months and avoid negative consequences for your health in the medium and long term. More info here
💡Do you want to manage your consumption? Book an appointment with our healthcare professionals. Find out whether or not you have a problem use and acquire strategies to reduce risks and harm from using psychoactive substances. More info here