NIDA is a biomedical research organization and does not provide personalized medical advice, treatment, counseling, or legal consultation. Information provided by NIDA is not a substitute for professional medical care or legal consultation. MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine, is a synthetic molecule of the substituted amphetamine class.

MDMA has moderate to high abuse potential but a conversely low potential for a genuine psychological dependence or addiction which appears even lower than cannabis (lower than 10%). Interestingly, MDMA’s potential for overuse and dependence or addiction can actually be greatly influenced by certain geographical components such as in other cultures or subcultures similarly to ketamine. Although ketamine‘s addiction potential is still notably higher across various cultures then compared to MDMA. Acute adverse effects of MDMA are usually the result of high amounts or multiple doses; either when done too frequently or excessively within a 24 hour period. MDMA has been shown to cause sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and delayed orgasm (see subjective effects). MDMA (an abbreviation of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), also called “Molly” or “Ecstasy,” is a lab-made (synthetic) drug that has effects similar to stimulants like methamphetamine.

MAPS Awards Grant for Pilot MDMA-assisted Massed Exposure Therapy Trial

Tolerance to many of the effects of MDMA develops with prolonged and repeated use. This results in users having to administer increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effects. In the United Kingdom, MDMA was made illegal in 1977 by a modification order to the existing Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Although MDMA was not named explicitly in this legislation, the order extended the definition of Class A drugs to include various ring-substituted phenethylamines.282283 The drug is therefore illegal to sell, buy, or possess without a licence in the UK. Penalties include a maximum of seven years and/or unlimited fine for possession; life and/or unlimited fine for production or trafficking.

Actively recruiting MDMA clinical studies

This effect can be lessened by relaxing, but can also be relieved by placing a hot flannel over the genitals to encourage blood flow.6869 However, MDMA causes water retention and dilution of electrolytes. Taking an adulterated drug can lead to unexpected and unwelcome side effects and may increase its potential health risks. Over the past decade, illegally made opioids like fentanyl have been increasingly found in the drug supply, and have contributed to a dramatic rise in drug overdose deaths in the United States. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (also known as ecstasy, E, XTC, emma, molly, mandy, pingers, and MDMA) is a classical entactogen substance of the amphetamine class. It is the most well-known and widely-used member of the entactogens, a diverse group that includes MDA, methylone, 4-MMC, and 6-APB. It produces its effects by promoting the release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, particularly serotonin.

Treatment options

• MDMA (an abbreviation of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), also called “Molly” or “Ecstasy,” is a lab-made (synthetic) drug that has effects similar to stimulants like methamphetamine.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for people with PTSD as a breakthrough therapy.
• However, this potent compound boasts therapeutic uses that extend far beyond its ability to bring good feels at a rave.
• However, because MDMA affects brain chemicals, some researchers think it could have lasting effects on areas, such as cognition and mood.
• Then, it was most often distributed at late-night parties called “raves”, nightclubs, and rock concerts.
• This effect can be lessened by relaxing, but can also be relieved by placing a hot flannel over the genitals to encourage blood flow.6869 However, MDMA causes water retention and dilution of electrolytes.
• The emergency and referral resources listed above are available to individuals located in the United States and are not operated by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).

Subjective effects include stimulation, anxiety suppression, disinhibition, enhanced empathy and sociability, relaxation, and euphoria. It is classified as an entactogen due to how it facilitates feelings of closeness with one’s self and others. A notable property of MDMA is that tolerance builds unusually quickly and many users report that it dramatically loses effectiveness if used on a frequent basis.

Abusers may also use in conjunction with other psychoactive drugs like LSD. As with many other “party drugs”, ecstasy is rarely used alone and it is frequently combined with alcohol and marijuana. As with other stimulants, the chronic use of MDMA can be considered moderately addictive with a high potential for abuse and is capable of causing psychological dependence among certain users. When addiction has developed, cravings and withdrawal effects may occur if one suddenly stops their usage.

How does MDMA work on the brain?

• Users may take several tablets at once or in succession over a period of time.
• Make sure to always discuss clinical trials with your primary doctor and/or therapist before they begin.
• MDMA is illegal, and there are reports that it can have negative health effects.
• The (S)-optical isomer of MDA is more potent than the (R)-optical isomer as a psychostimulant, possessing greater affinity for the three monoamine transporters.
• MDMA increases the release of serotonin and can inhibit its reuptake, leading to increased levels of the neurotransmitter in the brain during the MDMA high.

MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and psychedelic, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences. MDMA is a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, which means that the DEA has determined that it has no medical benefit and a high potential for abuse. Some scientists believe Ecstasy may be useful in therapy since it has been found to reduce fear in some individuals. Recently, there has been some research on if it can help people with severe PTSD confront painful memories during therapy appointments.171819 It may also have potential to help people diagnosed with cancer manage their anxiety about death. Regulation could reduce the risk of fake MDMA.6 MDMA appears to be safer than most other illegal drugs, though all drugs can be harmful under specific circumstances.7 MDMA is safer if you follow harm reduction guidelines. Phase three clinical trials are currently taking place, comparing MDMA treatment to current standard-of-care drugs.

Research suggests MDMA is potentially addictive, although more research is needed. MDMA increases the release of serotonin and can inhibit its reuptake, leading to increased levels of the neurotransmitter in the brain during the MDMA high. In simple terms, once serotonin has been mdma wiki released and creates a biological effect, it is usually inactivated through a reuptake mechanism. MDMA temporarily blocks this process, so the quantity of serotonin circulating in the brain is significantly increased. Since MDMA is currently an illegal substance, many reports about its health effects are anecdotal, and study results are often controversial. MDMA stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, from brain neurons producing a high that lasts from 3 to 6 hours, but the length of a high is variable based on the user.

It is also known as Molly or Ecstasy, and to a lesser extent, Mandy or Adam. MDMA is also beginning Phase 3 trials with the US FDA for the treatment of PTSD. In the days following an MDMA experience, the brain can become depleted of this neurotransmitter, leading to feelings of low energy and mild depression, known as a comedown. Long-term MDMA use has been linked to a form of neurotoxicity that alters and impairs serotonin function in the brain. In one study comparing MDMA and LSD, MDMA was found to increase extraversion and concentration but resulted in a gentler experience of ego dissolution.