MDMA

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Summary sheet: MDMA
MDMA
MDMA.svg
Chemical Nomenclature
Common names MDMA, Molly, Mandy, Emma, MD, Ecstasy, E, X, XTC, Rolls, Beans, Pingers
Substitutive name 3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine
Systematic name (RS)-1-(Benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-N-methylpropan-2-amine
Class Membership
Psychoactive class Stimulant / Entactogen
Chemical class Amphetamine / MDxx
Routes of Administration

WARNING: Always start with lower doses due to differences between individual body weight, tolerance, metabolism, and personal sensitivity. See responsible use section.



⇣ Oral
Dosage
Threshold 20 mg
Light 20 - 80 mg
Common 80 - 120 mg
Strong 120 - 150 mg
Heavy 150 mg +
Duration
Total 3 - 6 hours
Onset 30 - 45 minutes
Come up 15 - 30 minutes
Peak 1.5 - 2.5 hours
Offset 1 - 1.5 hours
After effects 12 - 48 hours









DISCLAIMER: PW's dosage information is gathered from users and resources for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation and should be verified with other sources for accuracy.

Interactions
5-MeO-xxT
Alcohol
Cocaine
DOx
GHB
GBL
MXE
ΑMT
Protease Inhibitors
SSRIs
SNRIs
25x-NBOMe
PCP
Serotonin releasers
2C-T-x
5-HTP
Tramadol
MAOIs
DXM

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.

MDMA was first developed in 1912 by the pharmaceutical company Merck.[1] However, human use was not reported until the 1970s, when it became known to underground psychotherapy circles in the United States.[2] In the early 1980s, it spread into nightlife and rave culture, which eventually resulted in federal scheduling in 1985.[3] By 2014, it was estimated to be one of the most popular recreational drugs in the world, alongside cocaine and cannabis.[4]

Today, recreational MDMA use is widely associated with dance parties, electronic dance music, and the clubbing and raving scenes.[5] Researchers are currently investigating whether MDMA may assist in treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety in autistic adults,[6] and anxiety in those with life-threatening illness.[7][8][9]

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.

It is usually recommended to wait for one to three months between each use to give the brain adequate time to restore serotonin levels and avoid toxicity. Additionally, using excessively high doses and multiple redosing is highly discouraged as this is thought to significantly increase the toxicity of MDMA.

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. Although single dose toxicity can still occur in susceptible individuals.[10] The most serious short-term physical health risks of MDMA are overheating and dehydration, which has resulted in deaths.[11] It has also been shown to be neurotoxic at high doses;[12] however, it is unclear how much this risk applies to typical recreational usage.[13] MDMA may cause excessive thirst, and inability to urinate the water, which may cause water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance. MDMA has been shown to cause sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and delayed orgasm (see subjective effects).

It is highly advised to use harm reduction practices if using this substance.

History and culture

Patent Certificate for Merck's synthesis of MDMA, dated 1912

MDMA was first synthesized in 1912 by the German chemist Dr. Anton Köllisch while employed at the pharmaceutical company Merck. Köllisch was in the process of developing agents that would help manage excess bleeding and was interested in MDMA synthesis because it was an intermediate in the production of methylhydrastinin, the methylated analog of the hemostatic agent hydrastinine. There are no indications of interest in MDMA as an active agent itself.[1]

It was not mentioned again until 1927, when Dr. Max Oberlin conducted the first proven pharmacological tests at Merck while searching for compounds with a similar action spectrum to adrenaline or ephetonine. Despite promising results, research was halted due to rising substance prices.[1]

In 1965, the American chemist Alexander Shulgin synthesized MDMA as an academic exercise but did not test it for psychoactivity.[14][2] Shulgin claims to have first heard about the effects of MDMA in 1967 from a student and decided to experiment with it himself. He was impressed with the effects of the substance and believed it could have therapeutic utility. He advertised it to therapists and psychiatrists which led it to gain some popularity as an adjunct treatment for various psychological disorders.[2]

During this period, psychotherapist Dr. Leo Zeff came out of retirement and subsequently introduced the then-legal MDMA to over 4,000 patients. From the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s there was a growth of clinicians using MDMA (then known as "Adam") in California.[15]

Recreational use of MDMA became popular at around the same time, particularly in nightclubs, eventually catching the attention of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). After several hearings, a US Federal Administrative Law Judge recommended that MDMA should be made a Schedule III controlled substance so that it could be used in the medical field. Despite this, the director of the DEA overruled this recommendation and classified MDMA as a Schedule I controlled substance.[16][14]

In the United Kingdom, the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act, which had already been altered in 1977 to include all ring-substituted amphetamines like MDMA, was further amended in 1985 to refer specifically to Ecstasy, placing it in the Class A category.[15]

Chemistry

MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine, is a synthetic molecule of the substituted amphetamine class. Molecules of the amphetamine class all contain a phenethylamine core comprised of a phenyl ring bound to an amino (NH2) group through an ethyl chain, with an additional methyl substitution at Rα. In addition to this, MDMA contains a methyl substitution on RN, a feature it shares with methamphetamine. Critically, the MDMA molecule also contains substitutions at R3 and R4 of the phenyl ring with oxygen groups -- these oxygen groups are incorporated into a methylenedioxy ring through a methylene bridge. MDMA shares this methylenedioxy ring with other entactogens and stimulants like MDA, MDEA and MDAI.

Pharmacology

MDMA acts primarily as a releasing agent of the three principal monoamine neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine through its action at trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2).[17][18][19] MDMA is a monoamine transporter substrate (i.e. a substrate for the transporters for dopamine (DAT), norepinephrine (NET), and serotonin (SERT)), enabling it to enter monoaminergic neurons via these neuronal membrane transport proteins.[18] By acting as a monoamine transporter substrate, MDMA produces competitive reuptake inhibition at the neuronal membrane transporters, competing for endogenous monoamines for reuptake.[18][20]

MDMA inhibits both vesicular monoamine transporters (VMATs), the second of which (VMAT2) is highly expressed within monoamine neurons vesicular membranes.[19] Once inside a monoamine neuron, MDMA acts as a VMAT2 inhibitor and a TAAR1 agonist.[18][21] The inhibition of VMAT2 by MDMA results in increased concentrations of the aforementioned monoamine neurotransmitters in the cytosol of the neuron.[19][22] Activation of TAAR1 by MDMA triggers protein kinase signaling events which then phosphorylates the associated monoamine transporters of the neuron.[18]

Subsequently, these phosphorylated monoamine transporters either reverse transport direction – i.e. move neurotransmitters from inside the cell to the synaptic cleft – or withdraw into the neuron, respectively producing the inflow of neurotransmitters and noncompetitive reuptake inhibition at the neuronal membrane transporters.[18] MDMA has ten times more affinity for uptake at serotonin transporters compared to dopamine and norepinephrine transporters and consequently has mainly serotonergic effects.[23]

MDMA also has weak agonist activity at postsynaptic serotonin receptors 5-HT1 and 5-HT2 receptors, and its more efficacious metabolite MDA likely augments this action.[24][25][26][27] Cortisol, prolactin, and oxytocin quantities in serum are increased by MDMA.[28]

Additionally, MDMA is a ligand at both sigma receptor subtypes, though its efficacies at these receptors and the role that they play have yet to be elucidated.[29]

Subjective effects

Disclaimer: The effects listed below cite the Subjective Effect Index (SEI), an open research literature based on anecdotal user reports and the personal analyses of PsychonautWiki contributors. As a result, they should be viewed with a healthy degree of skepticism.

It is also worth noting that these effects will not necessarily occur in a predictable or reliable manner, although higher doses are more liable to induce the full spectrum of effects. Likewise, adverse effects become increasingly likely with higher doses and may include addiction, severe injury, or death ☠.


Physical effects
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    • Abnormal heartbeat[citation needed]
    • Appetite suppression
    • Bodily control enhancement
    • Bronchodilation[citation needed]
    • Dehydration -- It is advised to avoid over-hydration from drinking excessive amounts of water, see the water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance section.
    • Difficulty urinating - Like with other stimulants; this can happen to a mild or moderate degree and is once again a recommended reason to avoid drinking too much water, see the water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance section.
    • Dry mouth - Avoid drinking too much water, see the water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance section. Chewing gum may help increase moisture and reverse dryness.
    • Excessive yawning - Occasional yawning is thought to occur as a result of serotoninergic activity which can make people more sedated or sleepy. It is more likely to occur with lower doses and/or due to purer MDMA. Therefore, it is sometimes used as an indicator of a batch's quality.
    • Increased blood pressure[30][31]
    • Increased bodily temperature[32] - As MDMA is a serotonin releasing agent, a rise in core body temperature tends to be a significant and consistent part of the experience. Caution must be taken as too high of a dose in a dangerously hot environment can result in serotonin toxicity and related oxidative stress, which can be fatal or very damaging if left untreated. Avoid drinking too much water, see the water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance section.
    • Increased heart rate[30]
    • Increased perspiration[33] - Avoid drinking too much water, see the water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance section.
    • Muscle contractions
    • Nausea - This effect is most commonly present during the come up phase of the experience, and at higher doses, but has been reported to occur spontaneously in those who seem to be susceptible to it. This is likely due to the large number of serotonin receptors occurring in the gut.
    • Neurotoxicity - Long-term use can lead to a significant degree of neurotoxicity. Consequences like this are the primary reason the use of MDMA should be delegated to only several times a year at most. Protracted symptoms of depression or anhedonia are fairly common with excessively frequent use.
    • Pain relief - This effect is generally not as powerful as it is with opioids.[34][35][36]
    • Pupil dilation - This component can be very prominent compared to other stimulants and is oftentimes almost identical to that of genuine psychedelics. Environments and level of lighting can factor in too however.
    • Seizure - Seizures are rare but may occur in those who are susceptible to them, especially when taking higher doses or redosing while in physically taxing conditions such as being dehydrated, fatigued, undernourished, or overheated.[citation needed]
    • Temporary erectile dysfunction & Orgasm suppression[37][38]
    • Spontaneous bodily sensations - The "body high" of MDMA can be characterized as a moderate to extreme euphoric and highly pleasurable tingling sensation of smoothness that encompasses the entire body. This sensation maintains a consistent presence that steadily rises with the onset and hits its limit once the peak occurs.
      • Physical euphoria - Physical euphoria is a prominent aspect of the MDMA experience and occurs reliably when MDMA is used responsibly (i.e. reasonable dosing and spacing between experiences) and can lead to profound feelings of social and physical disinhibition and hyperactivity or a profoundly pleasure feeling in the body which can also be characterized by a lack of mobility but with a substantial level of comfort. However, euphoria is quick to fade as one builds tolerance to MDMA's effects, colloquially known as "losing the magic".
    • Stamina enhancement
    • Stimulation - MDMA is popularly known for being stimulating and energetic. This encourages activities such as running, walking, climbing and dancing in a way that makes MDMA a popular choice for musical events such as festivals and raves or general nightlife activities. The distinct style of stimulation which MDMA presents can be described as forced. This means that at higher doses, it becomes difficult or impossible to keep still as jaw clenching, involuntarily body shakes and vibrations become present, resulting in an unsteadiness of the hands and a general lack of motor control. Unlike most other stimulants, however, the stimulating effects of MDMA can also paradoxically be accompanied by persistent or wave-like feelings of deep sedation and relaxation, depending on the dose, with lower doses exemplifying a more relaxing or sedative quality. However in moderate to high doses it acts more similar to traditional stimulants; resulting in a nearly invariable desire to move around and engage in various kinds of mobile activities. This encouraged style of stimulation for some individuals is well reputed for resulting very physically active behaviors such as dancing if said user is inclined or open to such activities. However, it is also not uncommon for people with general social prejudices against dance behavior to suddenly become much more openminded to the idea once under the influence of a sufficient (moderate) dose of MDMA.
    • Tactile enhancement - MDMA produces distinct enhancements to tactile sensations. Users commonly report a sense of softness and fuzziness draping over their skin. Likewise, touching soft and fuzzy objects such as shag rugs can become irresistibly pleasurable and satisfying. MDMA-type tactile enhancement appears to be an effect unique to the entactogen class and may be a serotonin-related effect. Although it is also worth noting that many experimenters of the drug find that the tactile effects (especially in regards to pleasure) have often been notably exaggerated by other users, with some of these proponents even claiming borderline “orgasmic” sensations associated with physical touch.
    • Teeth grinding[39] - This effect when experienced alongside the cognitive and physical euphoria can often lead to users mildly or intensely clenching their jaw muscles, sometimes even to the point where the individual’s facial expression begins to change. This is sometimes colloquially called “gurning”. This particular effect is to be the reason that people take MDMA at raves use pacifiers or chew gum since intense gurning can lead to many users biting excessively hard on their lips.[40] and is typically only experienced in moderate to high dosages. For other individuals, especially if they are prone to experience the paradoxical feelings of muscle relaxation, bruxism may not be as pronounced.
    • Temperature regulation suppression - Avoid drinking too much water, see the water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance section.
    • Vasoconstriction
    • Vibrating vision - At high doses, a person's eyeballs may begin to spontaneously wiggle back and forth in a rapid motion, causing the vision to become blurry and temporarily out of focus. This is a condition known as nystagmus.

Visual effects
Eye.svg

  • The visual effects of MDMA occur more selectively and less consistently than any of the traditional psychedelics. This has resulted in many people disregarding the psychedelic aspects of MDMA as a myth, rumor or negligible effect despite a large body of anecdotal reports suggesting otherwise. The (often mild) hallucinatory effects cannot be guaranteed to manifest themselves, but are the most likely to occur with chemically pure MDMA at high doses, as well as towards the end of the experience; particularly if the user has been smoking cannabis. The visuals during the offset are usually characterized by closed eye visuals (CEVs) such as typical psychedelic-like pattering. Whereas during the peak effects, the visuals tend to be more similar to the open eye distortions of standard psychedelics, albeit in much more mildly and less vivid form. They also seem more likely to occur if the user has prior experience with psychedelics.

    Enhancements

    MDMA presents an array of sensory enhancements, with typically modest visual enhancements which are characteristically mild in comparison to standard psychedelics, but are still distinctly present unlike other classical stimulants. These generally include:

    • Colour enhancement - This is exceptionally intense for MDMA when exposed to the very bright or neon colors; particularly when viewing radiant or luminescent colors such as with glow sticks.
    • Pattern recognition enhancement - Although similar or associated compounds are noted for inducing pareidolia (ubiquitously perceiving patterns in random visual stimuli); MDMA rather just enhances the quality, sharpness and aesthetic appreciation for already patterned surfaces and designs.

    Suppressions

    Distortions

    Geometry

    The visual geometry produced by MDMA can be characterized as more similar in appearance to that of psilocin than LSD. It can be comprehensively described through its variations as primarily intricate in complexity, abstract in form, organic in style, structured in organization, dimly lit in lighting, mostly monotone in colour with blues and greys, glossy in shading, sharp in edges, small in size, fast in speed, smooth in motion, equal in round and angular corners, non-immersive in-depth and consistent in intensity. At higher doses, they are significantly more likely to give rise to states of level 8A visual geometry over level 8B. Many users report that MDMA geometry presents itself with dark and menacing emotional vibes with a synthetic and nerve-racking feel to them.

    Hallucinatory states

    MDMA is capable of producing a unique range of low and high-level hallucinatory states in a fashion that is significantly less consistent and reproducible than that of virtually all other commonly used psychedelics. These effects are far more common either during the peak effects or the offset of the experience and commonly include:

    • External hallucination (autonomous entities; settings, sceneries, and landscapes; perspective hallucinations and scenarios and plots) - This effect shares many similarities to those produced by deliriant substances, but does not manifest itself consistently and usually happens only at heavy, likely toxic doses and is therefore not considered a typical or healthy sign when experiencing MDMA’s visuals. It can be comprehensively described through its variations as delirious in believability, autonomous in controllability and solid in style. They usually follow themes of memory replays and semi-realistic or expected events. For example, people could be casually holding objects or performing actions which one would expect them to be in real life before disappearing and dissolving under further inspection. Common examples of this include seeing people wearing glasses, or hats when they are not and mistaking objects for human beings or animals.
    • Internal hallucinations - The internal hallucinations which MDMA induces are only present as spontaneous breakthroughs at extremely high doses.[citation needed] This effect's variations are delirious in believability, interactive in style, new experiences in content, autonomous in controllability and solid in appearance. The most common way in which they manifest themselves is through hypnagogic scenarios which the user may experience as they are drifting off to sleep after a night of use; these can usually be described as memory replay from the previous several hours. These are brief and fleeting, but frequent and completely believable and convincing as they happen. In terms of the theme, they often are in the form of conversations with people or instead manifest as bizarre and extremely nonsensical plots.
    • Peripheral information misinterpretation[citation needed]

Cognitive effects
User.svg

  • The general head space of MDMA is described by many as one of pronounced mental stimulation, feelings of love or platonic affection, empathy, talkativeness, openness to novel social interactions and a pronounced sense of invigoration, revitalization and euphoric pleasure. It is capable of producing a large number of cognitive effects that are typically associated with entactogens and stimulants. The most prominent of these effects include:
    • Amnesia - Very high doses of MDMA can sometimes cause partial amnesia.
    • Anxiety suppression - Although the initial, but very brief coming-up stage can actually be characterized by mild or notable anxiety, this component is virtually always soon after replaced by a thoroughly well-rounded and/or major suppression of anxiety and feelings of worry.
    • Cognitive euphoria - Strong affective euphoria and feelings of happiness and significant increases in positive mood and optimism are nearly universally present with MDMA and are likely a direct result of the increased concentration of serotonin release, as well as norepinephrine, and dopamine increases to a lesser extent.[citation needed]
    • Compulsive redosing
    • Creativity enhancement - Although this is a very common effect, it evidently appears to be more prevalent amongst those with certain personality types or particular types of creative endeavors (such as music production rather than composing literary works for instance). It’s also usually regarded as being a less notable effect when compared to genuine psychedelic compounds.
    • Decreased libido[41][42][43]
    • Delirium & Confusion - This effect typically only occurs with overly high doses, and is associated with temperature dysregulation and overheating, particularly when MDMA is taken in crowded, physically strenuous environments that leaves the user unable to cool off, rest, or rehydrate adequately.
    • Disinhibition - This effect can be extremely powerful and is exemplified by (sometimes unrestrained) degrees of increased sociability, loquaciousness and exceptional confidence in regards to amicability and willingness to communicate openly with strangers. It’s considered to be less “obnoxious“ and careless however than with acute alcohol intoxication.
    • Ego inflation - This can manifest in a number of ways (both positive and negative) but is often characterized by an increase in self-esteem and an exuberant sense of confidence. Individual personality type and a user’s natural neurochemistry can play a major role in the quality of this effect.
    • Emotion enhancement - This effect typically is most heavily associated with the empathetic and affectionate aspects of MDMA although it tends to lack the sense of emotive sympathy and psycho-emotional vulnerability present in most psychedelics or even cannabis, with some users even reporting little to no meaningful change or augmentation in emotions. It is not uncommonly perceived as being more of an increase in understanding of others’ dispositions rather than deep heartfelt or visceral ‘feelings’ such as compassion or pity.
    • Empathy, affection, and sociability enhancement - This particular and largely characteristic effect is usually more consistent, pronounced, functional, powerful and therapeutic with MDMA than with any other known substance. It is the most evident and noticeable effect within any MDMA experience and dominates the headspace. Over time and with repeated use, however, this effect becomes substantially diminished as the perspective it instills becomes fully grounded and already in place, making people feel merely stimulated and euphoric with no overtly newfound urges to communicate with others. Some users report that MDMA "loses its magic" with as few as ten experiences, while others have reported hundreds of uses before the empathic qualities disappear. This does not appear to be valid for all users. However, many users report that they have not experienced any decrease in the novel qualities of the experience despite dozens or even hundreds of uses.
    • Focus enhancement - Focus enhancement only occurs at low to moderate doses. Higher doses will usually impair attention and concentration, particularly during the "come down" phase of the experience.
    • Immersion enhancement - This effect appears to be unusually pronounced in settings of exposure to music (especially formalized music-related events) or light-shows and similar types of visual or auditory displays.
    • Increased music appreciation - This effect usually manifests itself through an increase in both the hedonic and thrillingly emotional impact of musical acoustic phenomena, often leading to a “hyped“ or adrenaline rush type of feeling. For some users, an enhanced comprehension of subtle details in the music or a feeling of deeper understanding with regards to composition and lyrics has been reported what is essentially less common compared to many other hallucinogenic compounds. The overall effect is, for the most part mainly indicative of an all-around increased enthusiasm towards hearing music in general. Rarely, one may find music to be annoying or distracting rather than enhanced - this seems to be largely set and setting based and happens rarely.
    • Mindfulness
    • Motivation enhancement
    • Reinvigoration
    • Thought acceleration - This component can very effectively complement the social interactions and verbal communication with others that takes place during the experience. This is especially advantageous since this effect seems notably less manic, scatterbrained, ‘speedy’ and turbulent than with other stimulants; with many even describing it as feeling “smooth” and uniquely manageable.
    • Time compression - Strong feelings of time compression are commonly produced by MDMA and subjectively speed up the experience of time passage to an unusually substantial degree; possibly more than any other commonly used recreational substance.
    • Wakefulness

Auditory effects
Volume-up.svg

    • Enhancements
    • Hallucinations
    • Distortions
    • Tinnitus - Tinnitus is rarely reported, but typically manifests as a muffled roaring in the ears, affected by whether the user is upright or laying down. It is most commonly reported when using in conjunction with other substances but can manifest on its own at higher doses. This may be accompanied by partial or total, yet highly temporary (on the order of a minute), hearing loss, especially when standing. Some users have reported acquiring permanent tinnitus after abuse.

Transpersonal effects
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    • Existential self-realization - Although relatively common, this effect is not as pronounced, convicting or as consistent when compared to hallucinogens such as mescaline, psilocybin, LSD or MXE. This component has a unique quality within MDMA in that it almost always comes about in the form of self-affirmation, individual agency and a personal appreciation for one’s self as well as others.
    • Unity and interconnectedness - Experiences of lower-level unity and interconnectedness are commonly produced by MDMA, although in a much less abstract or ‘metaphysical’ form than compounds like LSD. This MDMA effect most consistently manifests itself within large crowds at raves and musical events in the form of "becoming one with the crowd." Music is said to consistently intensify this effect as well and can be considered very memorable and a defining feature of the experience’s peak.

After effects
Aftereffects (3).svg

  • The effects which occur during the offset of an entactogen or stimulant experience generally feel negative and uncomfortable in comparison to the effects which occurred during its peak. This is often referred to as a "comedown" and is thought to occur because of neurotransmitter depletion. Although, it has been more and more commonly recognized in recent years that the true “hangover” for MDMA, especially in regards to the depression tends to actually ‘skip a day’ due to the brain supposedly still releasing substantial amounts of serotonin the day after which likely explains the “afterglow” effect which is eventually later replaced by a genuine hangover and uncomfortable emotional effects. These effects commonly include: As stated above, individuals may experience an afterglow effect, especially when MDMA is used in a therapeutic context and harm reduction measures are properly adhered to. Some users have even utilized “recovery protocols” such as smoothies and other consumables made with certain ingredients to alleviate some of the symptoms present in shortages of neurotransmitter. That said, afterglows will often give-way to more frequent or even progressively worse comedowns if one's MDMA use becomes more frequent or excessive over time. It is a misconception however that some users experience either only afterglows or only comedowns/crashes when many, if not most users tend to experience both; just in a biphasic order. Such afterglow effects include:


Dose-effects relationship from analyzed samples

The optimal single oral dose for an average user may be around 90 mg going by this diagram. Note that the percentages at the bottom are too outdated to guide in estimating substance content in current pills: The average concentration of MDMA in ecstasy pills, tested in a drug checking program in Zurich, doubled between 2010 and 2018. The percentage of pills containing more than 120 mg MDMA rose from 4% to 73%. In the same period, the rate of pills containing other psychoactive compounds dropped from 53% to 7%.[44]

mdma_effects_curve_dims__i2016e0054_disp.jpg[45]

Experience reports

Anecdotal reports which describe the effects of this compound within our experience index include:

Additional experience reports can be found here:

Names and forms

Names

MDMA pills, commonly called Ecstasy
Off-white MDMA crystals, commonly called Molly

Since the 1980s, MDMA has become widely known as "Ecstasy" (shortened to "E", "X", or "XTC"), usually referring to its street forms as illicitly pressed pills or tablets.[46] The American term "Molly" and the British equivalent term "Mandy" originally referred to crystal or powder MDMA that was purported to be of high purity and free of adulteration.[47] However, it has since evolved into a generic street term for any number of euphoric stimulants that are sold in powder or crystal form.[citation needed]

Forms

MDMA can be found in the following forms:

Crystals

Crystals or powder (commonly called Molly) is a white to brownish substance which can be dissolved, crushed, put into gel capsules or edible paper ("parachutes"). It can be administered orally, sublingually, buccally or via insufflation ("snorting" or "sniffing").

Pills

Skull and crossbones darktextred2.png

Do not trust underground brand names, they are easily falsified

The previously good reputation of 'Mistubishi's' amongst ecstasy-users has been dealt a blow with the discovery of deadly batches (PMA has been found in White Mitsubishi,[48] PMMA has been found in Red Mitsubishi[49])

Pills are the most common form in which MDMA is sold, and are commonly referred to as Ecstasy. They often contain other substances or adulterants that range from anything from MDA, MDEA, amphetamine, methamphetamine, caffeine, 2C-B or mCPP to synthesis by-products such as MDP2P, MDDM or 2C-H. They can also contain an array random substances such as research chemicals, prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, poisons or nothing at all. It is strongly recommended to take harm reduction measures such as using a reagent testing kit when ingesting unknown pills.
The average concentration of MDMA in ecstasy pills, tested in a drug checking program in Zurich, doubled between 2010 and 2018. The percentage of pills containing more than 120 mg MDMA rose from 4% to 73%. In the same period, the rate of pills containing other psychoactive compounds dropped from 53% to 7%.[50]

Research

MDMA-assisted psychotherapy

Dosages

Common dosages for MDMA-assisted therapy:

  • 1.1-1.7 mg/kg, or 80-120 mg for a 70 kg person.
  • Kilo body weight + 50 in milligrams

MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD

In 2011, a pilot study on 20 patients demonstrated promising results in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After two or three MDMA-assisted psychotherapy sessions, 83% of the patients no longer met the criteria for PTSD, compared to only 25% in the control group where MDMA was replaced with a placebo. The results sustained at two and twelve months after the treatment. The MDMA and placebo group both received non-drug psychotherapy before and after the sessions. In the study, a dose of 125mg MDMA plus a 62.5mg supplemental dose after 2 hours have been administered.[51] After completion of the study, the patients from the placebo group also received MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, and a long-term follow-up study of 19 patients published in 2013 shows that even after three years the positive results maintained.[51]

In 2017, the FDA granted MDMA a breakthrough therapy designation for PTSD, meaning if studies show promise, a review for potential medical use could occur more quickly.[52] Phase 3 clinical trials to look at effectiveness and safety have already begun, and are expected to be completed in 2021, meaning the FDA could approve treatment as early as 2022.[53] [54]

R-MDMA

MDMA is typically produced and consumed in its racemic form (known as SR-MDMA) which consists of equal parts S-MDMA and R-MDMA. A 2017 study found that high doses of R-MDMA administered in mice increased prosocial behavior and facilitated fear-extinction learning but did not produce hyperthermia or signs of neurotoxicity. This is thought to owe itself to the lower dopamine release R-MDMA displays relative to SR-MDMA. This result suggests that R-MDMA may be a safer and more viable therapeutic than racemic MDMA.[55] However, more research is needed to validate this finding.

Reagent results

Exposing compounds to the reagents gives a colour change which is indicative of the compound under test.

Marquis Mecke Mandelin Liebermann Froehde Gallic
Purple - Black Green - Blue / Black Purple / Blue - Black Intense brown - Black Yellow/green - Dark blue Green to brown
Robadope Ehrlich Hofmann Simon’s Zimmermann Scott Folin
No reaction No reaction No reaction Dark blue No reaction No reaction Orange

Toxicity and harm potential

Table from the 2010 ISCD study ranking various drugs (legal and illegal) based on statements by drug-harm experts. MDMA ("Ecstacy") was found to be the 16th overall most dangerous drug.[56]
Radar plot showing relative physical harm, social harm, and dependence of MDMA[57]

The short-term physical health risks of MDMA consumption include dehydration, bruxism, insomnia, hyperthermia,[58][59] and hyponatremia.[60] MDMA generally does not cause any serious or life threatening effects by itself unless it is associated with other extraneous factors such as exposure to prolonged high ambient temperature and humidity, prolonged physical activities, poor intake of water and lack of acclimatization.[61]

Continuous activity without sufficient rest or rehydration may cause the user's body temperature to rise to dangerous levels, and loss of fluid via excessive sweating puts the body at further risk as the stimulating and euphoric qualities of MDMA may cause the user to become oblivious to their physical condition.

Diuretics such as alcohol may exacerbate these risks further due to causing excessive amounts of dehydration. Users are advised to pay close attention to their water intake, drinking neither too much nor too little, and to take care not to overexert themselves to avoid heat-stroke, which can be fatal.

Toxic dose

The exact toxic dosage is unknown, but considered to be far greater than its effective dose.[citation needed]

Water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance

Water intoxication symptoms typically show up when a person consumes more than about 3-4 liters of water within an hour.[62][63] Also, an important cause of death following MDMA use is hyponatremia, low blood sodium levels as a result of drinking too much water.

Ecstasy users have reported that xerostomia (dry mouth) is common.[64][65] The excessive drinking observed in case reports of MDMA use may be caused by hyperpyrexia, a change in the primary drive to drink, and exposure to harm reduction messages that emphasize the need to drink water.[66] Higher doses of MDMA result in an overall difficulty when it comes to urination.[67] Urinary retention is caused by MDMA’s promotion of the release of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH); ADH is responsible for regulating urination. This effect can be lessened by relaxing, but can also be relieved by placing a hot flannel over the genitals to encourage blood flow.[68][69] However, MDMA causes water retention and dilution of electrolytes. Consequently, overhydration has caused death from water intoxication.[70] It was a main cause of the Death of Leah Betts who consumed an excstasy tablet followed by approximately 7 litres (1.8 US gal) of water in a 90 minute period, that resulted in water intoxication and hyponatremia, which in turn led to serious swelling of the brain, irreparably damaging it.

Users may experience signs of dehydration such as dry mouth and sweating while dancing or in a hot environment.

Water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance prevention

It is advised that users have hydration available, drink to thirst and never over-drink.[citation needed]

  • Avoid consuming more than 3 liters of water within a few hours.
  • Hyponatremia is preventable by drinking fluid containing sodium, such as that contained in sports drinks (typically ~20mM NaCl).

Neurotoxicity

The neurotoxicity of MDMA use is the subject of considerable debate. Scientific study has resulted in the general agreement that, although it is physically safe to try in a responsible context, the administration of repeated or high dosages of MDMA is most certainly neurotoxic in some form.

Administration of MDMA causes subsequent down-regulation of serotonin reuptake transporters in the brain. The rate at which the brain recovers from serotonergic changes is unclear. One study demonstrated lasting serotonergic changes in some animals exposed to MDMA.[71] Other studies have suggested that the brain may recover from serotonergic damage.[72][73][74]

It is thought that MDMA's metabolites play a large role in the uncertain levels of neurotoxicity. For example, a metabolite of MDMA called alpha-Methyldopamine (α-Me-DA, which is known to be toxic to dopamine neurons[75][18]) was thought believed to be involved in the toxicity of MDMA to serotonin receptors.

However, one study found this to not be the case as direct administration of α-Me-DA did not cause neurotoxicity.[18] Additionally, MDMA injected directly into the brain was found to not be toxic, implying a metabolite is responsible for the toxicity when MDMA is administered via insufflation or oral consumption.[18]

This study found that although α-Me-DA is involved, it is a further metabolite of α-Me-DA involving glutathione that is primarily responsible for the selective damage to 5-HT receptors triggered by MDMA/MDA.[18]This metabolite forms in higher concentrations when core temperature is elevated. It is taken up into serotonin receptors by its transporters and metabolized by MAO-B into a reactive oxygen species which can cause neurological damage.[18][76]

Retracted article on dopaminergic neurotoxicity of MDMA

“Severe dopaminergic neurotoxicity in primates after a common recreational dose regimen of MDMA”[77] is an article by George A. Ricaurte which was published in September 2002 in the peer-reviewed journal Science, one of the world's top academic journals. It was later retracted; instead of using MDMA, methamphetamine had been used in the test.

Cardiotoxicity

Long-term heavy use of MDMA has been shown to be cardiotoxic and may lead to valvulopathy (heart valve damage) through its actions on the 5-HT2B receptor.[78][76]

In one study, 28% of long-term users (2-3 doses per week for a mean of 6 years, mean of age 24.3 years) had developed clinically evident valvular heart disease.[79]

It is strongly recommended that one use harm reduction practices when using this substance.

Dependence and abuse potential

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.

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.

Upon a single administration, it takes about 1 month for the tolerance to be reduced to half and 2.5 months to be back at baseline (in the absence of further consumption).

MDMA exhibits cross-tolerance with all dopaminergic and serotonergic stimulants, meaning that after the consumption of MDMA all stimulants will have a reduced effect.

Dangerous interactions

Warning: Many psychoactive substances that are reasonably safe to use on their own can suddenly become dangerous and even life-threatening when combined with certain other substances. The following list provides some known dangerous interactions (although it is not guaranteed to include all of them).

Always conduct independent research (e.g. Google, DuckDuckGo, PubMed) to ensure that a combination of two or more substances is safe to consume. Some of the listed interactions have been sourced from TripSit.

  • SSRIs and SNRIs - may dampen the the desired psychological effects of MDMA while retaining the same level of undesirable physiological side-effects.[80][81] But unlike common belief it doesn't cause serotonin syndrome.[citation needed]
  • 25x-NBOMe - Due to the highly unpredictable and physically straining effects of 25x-NBOMe, combinations with MDMA are strongly discouraged.
  • Protease Inhibitors - Certain HIV medications like Ritonavir or Cobicistat contain protease inhibitors, that cause the liver to process MDMA slower resulting in longer and stronger effects, which causes more harm to the liver and might cause overdosing. A lower dose is recommended. [82]
  • 5-MeO-xxT - 5-MeO tryptamines are considered to be unpredictable and should be mixed with MDMA with care.
  • Alcohol - Both MDMA and alcohol cause dehydration and bodily strain. Approach this combination with caution, moderation and sufficient hydration. More than a small amount of alcohol will dull the euphoria of MDMA.
  • Cocaine - Cocaine blocks some of the desirable effects of MDMA while increasing the risk of heart attack.[citation needed]
  • DOx - The combined stimulating effects of DOx and MDMA can become overbearing, particularly during the come-up phase. Additionally, coming down on the MDMA while the DOx is still active can produce significant anxiety and bodily discomfort.
  • GHB/GBL - Large amounts of GHB/GBL may overwhelm the effects of MDMA on the comedown and place the user at risk of sudden loss of consciousness.
  • MXE - There have been reports of concerning serotonergic interactions when the two are taken at the same time, but MXE taken to the end of an MDMA experience does not appear to cause the same issues.
  • PCP - PCP with MDMA may increase the risk of excessive stimulation, mania, and psychosis.
  • Tramadol - Tramadol is well-documented to lower the seizure threshold[83] and this risk is especially elevated when tramadol is taken with MDMA.

Serotonin syndrome risk

Combinations with the following substances can lead to dangerously high serotonin levels. Serotonin syndrome requires immediate medical attention and can be fatal if left untreated.

  • MAOIs such as syrian rue, banisteriopsis caapi, phenelzine, selegiline, and moclobemide[84] - MAO-B inhibitors can increase the potency and duration of phenethylamines unpredictably. MAO-A inhibitors with MDMA will lead to hypertensive crises.
  • Serotonin releasers such as MDMA, 4-FA, methamphetamine, methylone and αMT
  • AMT
  • 2C-T-x
  • DXM
  • 5-HTP - 5-HTP is a supplement that acts as a precursor for serotonin. It is sometimes recommended to be used after MDMA experiences to try to restore depleted serotonin reserves. However, taking 5-HTP shortly before or with MDMA may cause excessive serotonin levels in the brain, which can lead to serotonin syndrome.[85] As a result, it is advised to wait until the day after the MDMA has been used before consuming 5-HTP.

Legal status

Internationally, MDMA was added to the UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances as a Schedule I controlled substance in February 1986.[86]

  • Australia: MDMA is a Schedule 8 (Controlled Drugs) drug in Australia, starting July 1st 2023. [87] Personal quantities under 1.5 grams (or 5 single doses, such as when in tablet form) are decriminalized in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) as of 28 October 2023.[88]
  • Austria: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell under the SMG (Suchtmittelgesetz Österreich).[89]
  • Belgium: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell in Belgium.[90]
  • Brazil: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell under Portaria SVS/MS nº 344.[91]
  • Canada: MDMA is a Schedule I drug in Canada.[92]
  • Denmark: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell in Denmark.[93]
  • Egypt: MDMA is a Schedule III drug in Egypt.[citation needed]
  • Finland: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell in Finland.[citation needed]
  • Germany: MDMA is controlled under Anlage I BtMG (Narcotics Act, Schedule I)[94] as of August 1, 1986.[95] It is illegal to manufacture, possess, import, export, buy, sell, procure or dispense it without a license.[96]
  • Latvia: MDMA is a Schedule I drug in Latvia.[97]
  • Luxembourg: MDMA is a prohibited substance.[98]
  • The Netherlands: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell in the Netherlands.[99]
  • New Zealand: MDMA is a Class B1 drug in New Zealand.[100]
  • Norway: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell in Norway.[citation needed]
  • Portugal: MDMA is illegal to produce, sell or trade in Portugal. However, since 2001, individuals found in possession of small quantities (up to 1 gram) are considered sick individuals instead of criminals. The drugs are confiscated and the suspects may be forced to attend a dissuasion session at the nearest CDT (Commission for the Dissuasion of Drug Addiction) or pay a fine, in most cases.[101]
  • Russia: MDMA is classified as a Schedule I prohibited substance.[102]
  • Sweden: MDMA is illegal to possess, produce and sell in Sweden.[citation needed]
  • Switzerland: MDMA is a controlled substance specifically named under Verzeichnis D.[103]
  • United Kingdom: MDMA is a Class A drug in the UK.[104]
  • United States: MDMA is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substance Act. This means it is illegal to manufacture, buy, possess, process, or distribute without a license from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).[105]
  • Czech Republic: MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance.[106]

See also

External links

Harm reduction

References

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  87. ↑ Australian MDMA and Psilocybin, new laws., 2023 
  88. ↑ https://www.health.act.gov.au/about-our-health-system/population-health/drug-law-reform
  89. ↑ Suchtgiftverordnung, aktuelle Fassung 
  90. ↑ EMCDDA Country legal profiles - Belgium | http://www.emcdda.europa.eu/html.cfm/index5174EN.html?pluginMethod=eldd.countryprofiles&country=BE
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  97. ↑ Noteikumi par Latvijā kontrolējamajām narkotiskajām vielām, psihotropajām vielām un prekursoriem (3,4-Metilēndioksifeniletānamīni) 
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  102. ↑ Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation | https://www.consultant.ru/cons/cgi/online.cgi?req=doc&base=LAW&n=314201&fld=134&dst=100034,0&rnd=0.41568319511755825#047741519652799347
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  104. ↑ Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 
  105. ↑ DEA / Drug Scheduling | https://www.dea.gov/druginfo/ds.shtml
  106. ↑ https://www.zakonyprolidi.cz/cs/2013-463#f5150333


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