Signs and Symptoms of Ecstasy Use
Ecstasy is scientifically called MDMA and commonly called “Molly”. Ecstasy users will display some clear-cut signs and symptoms. This can be attributed to the drug’s make up, which is a combination of stimulants and tranquilizers. Symptoms include:
- Increased sensory perception
- Exaggerated sense of touch
- Increased energy
- Disrupted sleeping schedule
- Decreased pain perception
- Promiscuous behavior
- Skin rashes
The dangers associated with ecstasy use are related mostly to body temperatures. Because when used, it immediately acts as a stimulant, it can cause the body’s temperature to rise to very high, and sometimes lethal, levels. Extremely high body temperatures can cause organ damage, especially kidney failure, heart attack, and death.
The brain can be seriously affected by ecstasy use. Prolonged uses can trigger chronic anxiety, depression and disorientation. Muscle spasms and teeth clenching are also side effects of ecstasy use, so users can frequently be found with a pacifier in their mouths to ease the discomfort.
What is Ecstasy?
Ecstasy, MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) or “club drug” is a synthetic, psychoactive drug which has stimulant and hallucinogenic effects because of its chemical similarities with amphetamine and mescaline. Ecstasy is found usually in form of colorful tablets or capsules. The effects start approximately 15 to 20 minutes after the intake and wear off in 3 to 6 hours. It is frequently taken in combination with other drugs such as cocaine and ketamine. When ecstasy is used, the increased levels of serotonin triggers increased levels of the hormones that generate the desire for closeness, love, trust, and sexual arousal, which explains the symptoms of its use.
Ecstasy users may develop tolerance which means that higher and higher doses over time are required to get the same effect. This drug can be addictive although in lesser degree than other drugs but withdrawal symptoms (depression, loss of appetite, fatigue and loss of concentration) can still occur if a person stops using this drug.
How Ecstasy is used:
Swallowed in tablet, capsule or liquid form, and inhaled (snorted) in powder form.
Other names: Molly, Adam, Eve, Bean, E, Roll, X, XTC, Hug, Love drug
So, how do you know if your teen’s behavior is normal or troublesome? Is it Drugs or is it Just Teenage Angst
