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Ecstasy, also know as MDMA (MethyleneDioxyMethamphetAmine), ’E’ or ’X’ is a harmful drug abused at one time or another, by over half of the individuals reported within the United States. The risks of negative side-effects for this substance after use, or in overdosing can be painful and even life-threatening. So what exactly is Ecstasy, and what are some of the negative side-effects to using and/or abusing the substance? Initially synthesized by Anton Kollisch in the early nineteen hundreds, MDMA was to be used to slow or stop bleeding in medical patients. In the mid-nineteen hundred and eighties ‘X’ was starting to be abused at raves - for recreational use. Now, the drug is illegal to sell and use in the United States as well as in several other countries. Some of the after-effects of using Ecstasy may include, but are not limited to: * Vertigo, dizziness and/or mental confusion * Headache, muscle aches and/or exhaustion * Loss of appetite, stomach cramping and/or diarrhea * Anxiety, paranoia, irritability, depression and/or suicidal tendencies There are also side-effects to consistently abusing the substance over long periods of time. Studies have shown that brain damage is the most consistent effect that can occur after using ‘X’ only a few times, or for several years on end. The damage directly affects the serotonin transporters within the brain. These ‘SERTs’ assist the brain in creating positive feelings for the remainder of the body. When the ‘SERTs’ are damaged, long term effects may include severe depression and memory failure. Another concern amongst researchers of Ecstasy useage is that of overdose or impure substance abuse. It is quite common for ‘E’ pills to not be completely pure when taken, leaving the user unknowing of what actual effects may occur when used. Some impure ‘X’ substances may include ephedrine, hallucinogens, meth, caffeine and/or heroine. The number of deaths from Ecstasy overdose is rising with each passing year. In offering a short period of euphoria when the drug is taken, some believe that they may enhance that feeling by taking more of the drug. When this occurs, disorientation begins to take place, along with possible amnesia, hypertension and heart failure. The body is unable to process the dosage of ’X’ fast enough to remove it from within the system, and therefore shuts down. If you or a loved one in your life is experiencing an addiction to Ecstasy it is in your best interest to contact a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center directly. Individuals within these centers can assist you or your loved one in heading toward a safe and healthy recovery from the drug as soon as possible. About the Author: Robert Shryoc is the Director of Development at the Stonegate Center, a Texas treatment center. The Texas drug rehab community serves people entangled in the physical, mental, social and spiritual bonds of chemical dependency. For more information about the residential treatment facility please visit www.stonegatecenter.com.
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