Ecstasy Overdose Symptoms, Prevention & Addiction Treatment

MDMA, also known as ecstasy or Molly, has gained popularity over the years. In 2023, estimates revealed that around 2.1 million people in the U.S. had used the drug, according to Statista. As a man-made drug that causes hallucinogenic and stimulant effects, it became popular in clubs, but a wider range of people now use it for various reasons. Despite its popularity for recreational use, the drug does come with risks, which makes knowing the ecstasy overdose symptoms and signs of ecstasy abuse vitally important.

Along with recreational use, ecstasy has recently been used as part of the growing interest in the use of psychedelic substances like MDMA, LSD, and psilocybin for the treatment of mental health disorders. This approach, known as psychedelic therapy, is being explored through clinical trials focused on the potential benefits of MDMA in treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use disorder. Despite the ongoing research for medical treatment, MDMA remains classified as a controlled substance by the government with significant legal and health risks associated with unauthorized use.

What Are the Symptoms of Ecstasy Intoxication?

People who take ecstasy for recreational purposes often do so to experience the hallucinogenic and stimulant effects. Users typically undergo a sense of euphoria, increased energy, and heightened sensories, like increased sensitivity to touch, sound, and color, with many people reporting a profound sense of emotional openness and empathy towards others. Physical symptoms can include dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. Users may also experience profuse sweating, heightened body temperature, and involuntary teeth grinding.

However, these effects can become a bigger issue as the drug’s impact intensifies. Those experiencing the intoxicating effects of ecstasy may feel a combination of confusion, disorientation, and impaired judgment. Serious medical issues can include an elevated body temperature, which can lead to organ failure and dehydration. As the drug’s effects begin to lessen, the “comedown” experience begins, which can include extreme fatigue, depression, cognitive difficulties, and potential feelings of emotional emptiness. Long-term abuse of ecstasy or repeated use can result in potential memory loss issues, the ability to control emotions, and a decline in overall mental health. These tell-tale symptoms are a great way to learn how to tell if someone is on ecstasy.

What Is the Mechanism of Toxicity of Ecstasy?

The toxicity produced from ecstasy centers on its profound impact on neurotransmitter systems, particularly serotonin. MDMA causes massive, uncontrolled release of serotonin from nerve terminals by reversing the normal function of the serotonin transporter. Instead of producing normal levels of serotonin, the transporter begins to pump serotonin out of the neuron in large amounts. This sudden increase in serotonin initially creates the drug’s euphoric effects, but it can eventually lead to significant neurological damage. The complex nature of MDMA’s toxicity is why it can cause immediate euphoric effects as well as potential long-term neurological damage.

What Type of Drug Is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is considered a psychoactive substance that acts as a stimulant and hallucinogen. While it is primarily classified as a stimulant, MDMA distinguishes itself through its unique ability to generate feelings of emotional empathy and heightened social connection. The chemical structure of the substance causes a complex physiological and psychological response that goes beyond traditional stimulant effects.

While it shares some hallucinogenic effects, MDMA is not a classic psychedelic like LSD. As it creates mild perceptual changes, heightened sensory sensitivity, and profound emotional experiences, it is listed as a Schedule I controlled substance, indicating its high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use under current federal regulations. However, ongoing studies may prove otherwise on the latter. Its complicated nature and effects make ecstasy a unique substance that challenges traditional drug classifications.

What Does Ecstasy Do to Your Mouth?

Taking ecstasy can also negatively impact a user’s oral health. One of the most prominent side effects involves involuntary teeth grinding and jaw clenching. This side effect commonly occurs during the drug’s stimulant phase. This intense and constant grinding can cause severe oral health damage, including tooth enamel erosion, cracked or chipped teeth, and jaw muscle strain.

MDMA can also cause dry mouth by reducing normal saliva production. Reduced saliva flow can lead to more bacterial growth, increasing risks of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. The drug’s dehydrating effects increase the problem, making users more at risk for oral health issues. All of these oral health issues can lead to more dental issues, requiring significant dental work to repair the structural damage caused by long-term abuse of ecstasy.

Overcome Ecstasy Overdose Symptoms and Find Treatment at Resurgence Behavioral Health

The rise of ecstasy use has also given way to the misuse and abuse of the drug. Despite its recreational use in clubs, users can experience ecstasy overdose symptoms, and finding treatment for MDMA addiction is vital. Resurgence Behavioral Health provides addiction treatment for patients suffering from ecstasy addiction and other substance abuse issues. Our drug treatment facility in California offers professional treatment services in a caring environment to foster sobriety. We provide each patient with a personalized treatment plan that features evidence-based methods to ensure they receive the best care possible. For help overcoming substance abuse issues in a professional and caring environment, please contact Resurgence Behavioral Health by calling 855-458-0050 today.

External Sources

• United States Department of Justice – MDMA (Ecstasy) Fast Facts
• Statista – Number of people in the U.S. who used ecstasy (MDMA) in the past year from 2009 to 2023
• National Library of Medicine – Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health

David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.

Research | Editorial