Signs of Ecstasy Addiction

Sometimes also called the “love drug” because its use releases the bonding hormone oxytocin, Ecstasy is the more common name for MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine).  Its chemical properties are similar to those of meth and mescaline (a stimulant and a hallucinogen).  Most often found in tablet or capsule form, Ecstasy first became popular among young adults who attended raves or clubs.  However, today, many others have experimented with this substances, sometimes in combination with other drugs like cocaine, ketamine, crystal meth, or marijuana.  An official government survey from 2009 showed that over 700,000 people aged 12 and above in the United States had used MDMA during the month before the survey was taken, and over 1 million had tried Ecstasy for the first time that year.  Addiction to Ecstasy can lead to a number of negative outcomes if not addressed.  To determine whether your friend, family member, co-worker, or employee is addicted to Ecstasy, consider the following signs of addiction. 

• Impaired Thinking and Memory – People who are addicted to MDMA score lower on tests of memory and cognition although it is not clear whether this is a direct result of MDMA use or the abuse of other substances simultaneously, which is a common practice among MDMA addicts.  However, animal studies have shown that only 4 days of exposure to MDMA can result in nerve damage to the brain’s communication terminals for a specific neurotransmitter (serotonin) that could persist for as long as 7 years thereafter.
• Sleep Disturbances – A person who has recently used or chronically uses MDMA may complain of difficulty sleeping.
• Time Distortion – A person who has used Ecstasy may make statements about how time seems to have slowed.
• Energy ­­- Because of its similarities to the stimulant meth, Ecstasy can make a user feel awake and alert.
• “Warm and Fuzzy” – As its nickname – the “love drug” – suggests, MDMA use makes people feel intense emotional connections with others that can lead to sexually risky behaviors.
• Depression and Anxiety – After the euphoria experienced when using MDMA, an addict may feel anxious or depressed.
• Elevated Body Temperature – High doses of Ecstasy can produce hyperthermia, which can damage internal organs and is of particular concern for individuals who have been using in crowded club or party environments.
• Weight Loss – MDMA was originally developed and marketed as an appetite suppressant but was never used in mainstream medicine for this purpose.
• Jitteriness and Irritability – After MDMA use, the addict may act jittery, jumpy, or irritable.
• Grinding Teeth – If you notice that the person’s teeth seem worn from frequently clenching his or her jaw and grinding his/her teeth, MDMA is one possible drug that could be causing it.
• Attendance at Parties – If other signs are present, frequently going to clubs and parties, and staying out all night could mean an MDMA addiction.

If you recognize that your MDMA use is causing problems in your life, consider using the self-help module on this website, browsing our self-help resources, or contacting a residential or outpatient rehab program for professional assistance. Family and friends of Ecstasy addicts may need to consider holding an intervention to get the person help.