MDMA, also commonly known as Molly and Ecstasy, is a so-called “party drug” that is popular in the club scene. Particularly favored amongst younger individuals, this drug’s seemingly innocent name does not diminish its dangerous nature.
Whether you frequent parties or are concerned for a loved one, it is important to understand the risks involved with this drug. In doing so, you can keep yourself stay safe. One of the questions many find themselves asking about this drug is, how long does MDMA last?
What Is MDMA?
To answer the question “How long does MDMA last,” it’s important to understand what MDMA is and how it affects the body. MDMA stands for Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and is a synthetic drug that is similar in its chemical composition to stimulants and hallucinogens.
In general, the drug can be taken in the form of a tablet, capsule, liquid, or powder. Typically, MDMA pills are easier to transport and use, which is why it is the preferred method of use. With that being said, the form in which this drug is taken can alter how long it lasts. Unfortunately, this can lead people to experiment with its various forms.
In 2021, the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that roughly 2.2 million people in the U.S. reported MDMA use within the past 12 months. This is largely due to the drug’s ability to increase dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine levels in the brain. By releasing these “feel good” chemicals, the drug creates an intense euphoric high.
For many people who experiment with MDMA, this high can be enjoyable enough to encourage repeated use. Over time, however, the misuse of this drug can cause them to become dependent on the substance, eventually leading to addiction.
What Are the Effects of MDMA?
In addition to the euphoric high MDMA can produce, those who use this drug can also experience several adverse side effects. Even with just one use, this drug can have serious consequences.
Some of the most common short-term side effects of MDMA include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Depersonalization
- Disorientation
- Chills
- Sweating
- Muscle cramps
MDMA acts as both a stimulant and psychedelic, so it is also known to cause sleep problems and an increased risk of developing mental health disorders. The long-term effects of taking MDMA can be damaging and irreversible.
Long-term abuse of MDMA can result in more serious health effects, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Aggressive and violent behavior
- Impaired attention and memory
- Heart disease
While considered to be rare, overdose is also possible when taking high doses of MDMA. Too much of the drug can hinder the body’s ability to properly metabolize it, leading to high blood levels, an inability to properly regulate body temperature, and irregular heartbeat.
Mixing MDMA with caffeine, alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs with stimulant effects can worsen these symptoms. In some cases, the side effects of an MDMA overdose can be life-threatening if left unaddressed.
Are you struggling with an addiction to MDMA?
Royal Life Centers at The Haven is here to help you recover. Because we care.
How Long Does MDMA Last?
Now that you understand what MDMA is, we can now answer the question of how long MDMA stays in your system. Of course, the answer to this question can vary based on several factors, including how much of the drug is used, what form it is in, and certain biological factors such as your sex, age, and weight.
With that being said, the effects of MDMA can generally last anywhere from 3-6 hours. The half-life of MDMA is around eight hours, meaning it can take up to 40 hours for the drug to fully leave the system.
The typical timeline of MDMA effects can look something like this:
- Within 30 minutes to 1 hour, the effects of MDMA will start to kick in.
- After one to two hours, the peak effects of MDMA are felt, including intense euphoria, emotional closeness, and energy.
- After two to six hours, the effects of MDMA start to wear off, replaced with feelings of tiredness, depression, or anxiety.
- After 12 to 24 hours, the user may still experience some physical effects, such as a fast heart rate or insomnia.
- MDMA can be detected in urine for 4-6 days after taking the drug.
- For up to 90 days after taking MDMA, the drug can be detected in hair follicles.
It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The actual duration of MDMA effects can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s metabolism, the dosage of MDMA, and whether or not the drug is taken with other substances.
For those who are micro-dosing MDMA, this can shorten the length of time it will remain in their system. With that being said, it is not recommended to use MDMA at all, including micro-dosing of this drug. MDMA in any amount can have adverse effects on the user, and its varying doses can make it harder to determine how long these will last.
Can You Get Addicted to Molly?
Over time, repeated use of Molly can lead to changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter system, which can make it difficult to function without the drug. This can lead to addiction, which is a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite negative consequences.
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing an addiction to Molly, including:
- Age: Younger people are more likely to become addicted to Molly than older people.
- Personality: People who are impulsive or have a history of other addictions may be more likely to become addicted to Molly.
- Environment: People who use Molly in a party or social setting may be more likely to become addicted than people who use it in a clinical setting.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be addicted to Molly, there are several signs that you can look out for to determine if this is the case, including:
- Spending large amounts of time using, acquiring, or recovering from the effects of MDMA.
- Developing a tolerance or needing to use the drug more often or in larger amounts to achieve the same effects.
- Becoming more socially withdrawn, secretive, or no longer participating in previously enjoyable activities due to drug use.
- Developing withdrawal symptoms after stopping or decreasing drug use.
If you recognize any of the signs in yourself or a loved one, it is important to seek professional treatment. An MDMA addiction can have serious consequences, but the right help can bring you back to a happier and healthier lifestyle.
MDMA Abuse Treatment at Royal Life Centers
Those who have become addicted to MDMA are no strangers to the toll this disease has on one’s life. If you are struggling with this addiction, it is important to know that you are not alone, and help is available.
At Royal Life Centers, we offer extensive treatment services to those struggling with a variety of substance addictions, including MDMA disorders. When recovering at our facility, you will be able to participate in a variety of treatment options, including:
- Medical detox
- Residential inpatient rehab
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Outpatient services
- Sober living residences
- Evidence-based psychotherapies
- Experiential and holistic therapies
No matter which of our addiction treatment programs best suits your needs, you can rest easy knowing that you will have access to the care you need at our treatment center. To learn more about how we can help you on your road to recovery, reach out to us today.
