Any drug that is misused or abused has the potential to cause issues for both your physical and mental health. You could develop a substance use disorder such as a dependence or addiction. The drug known as Molly has generally been used recreationally. Its use has been known to result in many negative symptoms, sometimes serious health problems, but is Molly addictive?
What is Molly?
Molly is the common name for 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception. Chemically, it is similar to stimulants and hallucinogens. MDMA was first used in the 1970s as an aid in psychotherapy, but it did not have the support of clinical trials or approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
In 1985, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) labeled MDMA as an illegal drug. Today, MDMA is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. That means it has a high potential for abuse. Most recently, the FDA gave MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) a “Breakthrough Therapy” designation.
Several years ago, MDMA was popular in the nightclub scene and at dance parties known as raves. The drug now affects a broad range of people who refer to it as Molly.
Molly’s Effects
MDMA works by affecting the brain cells that use the chemical serotonin to communicate with each other. Serotonin plays an active part in regulating sleep, pain sensitivity, sexual activity, mood, and aggression. Molly may increase the risk of long-term, possibly even permanent, problems with learning and memory. It causes changes in perception, including euphoria and increased sensitivity to touch, as well as energy and a need for stimulation.
When taken in high doses, Molly can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. This can lead to a sharp increase in body temperature, known as hyperthermia, that can result in kidney, liver, and cardiovascular system failure. It can also be fatal.
Is Molly Addictive?
Research has yet to determine definitively if Molly is addictive and, if so, to what extent. The drug abuse potential seems to be less than that of drugs such as cocaine, but individuals can still become dependent on the MDMA, given its effects on the mind and body.
Molly causes changes in the brain, which can make it addictive. People who use the drug report signs of addiction, including experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they are not using it. It has been shown to cause dependence in many people, who also go through withdrawal when they are not taking the drug.
Symptoms of Molly Use
The drug MDMA takes about 30 to 45 minutes to take effect and can last about 6 hours. It can take two days for the drug to clear the body’s system completely. Some of the immediate symptoms an individual can experience when taking Molly include:
- Feeling more energetic
- Being more talkative
- An increase in emotions
- Being more empathetic and trusting
- Having a sensitivity to light, touch, and sound
- Experiencing a sense of euphoria or giddiness.
In addition to hyperthermia, there are many serious, sometimes life threatening symptoms as well, including:
- A lack of awareness that can impair decision-making, which can lead to risky behaviors such as dangerous driving
- High blood pressure
- Anxiety, depression, and confusion
- Blurred vision
- Headache, nausea, chills, and sweating
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
- Irritability
- Sleeplessness
- Memory issues.
Symptoms of Withdrawal
Just like other drugs that can cause dependence or addiction, there are withdrawal symptoms for the individual after the effects of Molly wear off, including:
- Depression
- Confusion
- Cognitive issues
- Lack of focus
- Drug cravings.
In an effort to overcome these withdrawal symptoms, many people will continue to use the drug. Dangers of repeated use can include:
- An increase in heart rate and rhythm changes
- Panic attacks
- Seizures
- Anxiety, depression, and confusion
- Dehydration and kidney problems.
These withdrawal symptoms can worse when the dose or frequency of use is increased. These symptoms can indicate an addiction to Molly.
Addiction and Mental Health Support for Men
We want you to be safe and healthy. When you are addicted to a dangerous drug such as Molly or MDMA, we can help. At PACE Recovery, we optimize your recovery success with integrated treatment that will address both your addiction to drugs or alcohol and your mental health issues. We address your whole person, including your spiritual, medical, psychosocial, and relational facets.
The professionals at PACE understand the challenges you are facing during this period of isolation and uncertainty. We’re here to help. Our men’s-only programming has transformed hundreds of lives over the years, and we believe that you can recover. To learn more about our mental health and addiction services, contact our Admissions team.
