While ecstasy is popular on the party scene, it remains dangerous and even deadly. Popular in clubs, raves, and house parties here in Southern California and across the United States, ecstasy can be more harmful than people realize. Like other stimulant drugs, ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is addictive. Luckily, knowledgeable recovery programs now provide comprehensive dual diagnosis MDMA treatment centers to prevent the dangerous side effects of ecstasy.
If you or someone you love in the LGBTQ community is worried about the dangers of ecstasy, know you are not alone. Our Hollywood, California ecstasy treatment center provides cutting-edge party drug and alcohol detox for the LGBTQ community. Our residential, outpatient, and sober living homes support every stage of recovery. Call us now at888.903.9898 to learn more.
What Is Ecstasy?
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, stands for 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. As a methamphetamine, ecstasy speeds up the brain and body’s processes, including heart rate, metabolism, breathing, and dopamine levels. Commonly called the “pleasure chemical,” dopamine causes a “reward effect” that makes people crave more dopamine. While the brain makes small amounts of dopamine every day, the brain and body crave it because it causes euphoria, joy, and enhanced confidence.
The pleasure effects of dopamine increase when someone on MDMA is exposed to flashing lights, music, or becomes physically active. Like other street drugs, ecstasy is known by many names, often related to its effects, and it can be difficult to know what’s in a dose of MDMA and how it might affect someone.
Side Effects of Ecstasy
Like other stimulant drugs, ecstasy quickly changes the body’s processing speeds. This can cause side effects, including:
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Lack of appetite
- Tremors and shaking
- Sweating
- Changes in behavior
- Mood swings
- Changes in breath and body odor
- Aggression
- Unexplained anger
When ecstasy wears off, someone experiences a “come down.” This can be a painful process as the body re-regulates and slows down. If someone takes ecstasy at a rave or club, dehydration can worsen these side effects and make ecstasy more dangerous.
Dangers of Ecstasy
Like other drugs, ecstasy can become addictive. Stimulant drugs are often used to avoid difficult feelings and emotions or self-regulate untreated mental health disorders. Unfortunately, the LGBTQ community is disproportionately affected by ecstasy and MDMA addiction. While MDMA is common, the dangers of ecstasy consumption include the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Brain swelling
- Panic attacks
- Irregular heartbeat
Like other stimulants, ecstasy taxes vital organs, making the heart, brain, lungs, and muscles work harder. This can cause muscle cramping and lead to serious health problems like seizures and strokes. Ecstasy overdose can lead to death. For those with preexisting anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, or bipolar disorder, these side effects may be stronger.
Hollywood California Ecstacy Treatment
The dangers of ecstasy are avoidable. Unfortunately, many in the LGBTQ community struggle to find drug-free community spaces or feel social pressure to use MDMA. While many people enjoy MDMA socially, the dangers of MDMA addiction, health problems, and potential overdose are real. If you or someone you love is concerned about MDMA abuse and their mental health, we can help.
La Fuente’s Southern California party drug detox and rehab center provides an inclusive space for LGBTQ community members to recover together. With dual diagnosis treatment, our clinicians help clients uncover the root causes of drug abuse and addiction in a safe community. With residential, outpatient, and sober living options in Hollywood, CA, we have a program for you.
Learn More About the Dangers of Ecstasy
When it comes to party drugs, it’s always good to stay informed. To learn more about the dangers and side effects of ecstasy, reach out now. Call us at 888.903.9898 to get started, or reach out online.
