MDMA, more commonly known as “molly,” is a synthetic drug that has been historically popular at raves and music festivals. However, it has become increasingly popular among drug users for a variety of activities. If you or a loved one is suffering from a Molly addiction, reach out to one of Zelus Recovery’s healthcare professionals today via 208.518.0797 to discuss addiction treatment programs.
What Is Molly?
Molly is a synthetic drug that is capable of both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. It is most often seen sold as a powder-filled capsule and is supposedly the purest form of MDMA. However, sometimes Molly capsules contain no MDMA at all. Because of this, the effects of Molly can vary and encompass a wide range of symptoms, including a number of dangerous symptoms.
Your Brain on Molly
Most of Molly’s effects are results of an increase in activity of three neurotransmitters in your brain:
- Serotonin
- Dopamine
- Norepinephrine
Dopamine release is often associated with pleasurable feelings, leading a person to want to continue the behaviors that led to them. These pleasurable feelings can be feelings of increased energy or happiness. Increasing dopamine can lead to psychological changes, whereas the increased activity of norepinephrine raises blood pressure and heart rate.
Both the pleasant and unpleasant side effects (such as an “MDMA hangover”) result from molly’s effects on the serotonin system. Serotonin helps regulate mood, sexual behavior, aggression, pain sensitivity, sleep, and memory.
The Dangers of Molly
Molly is most well-known for bringing forth feelings of love and desire. However, not all of the effects work this way. Many of Molly’s side effects can be incredibly dangerous. Some potential side effects are:
- Blurry vision
- Abnormal eye movements
- Nausea
- High blood pressure
- Rapid pulse
- Rapid breathing rates
- Tense muscles
- Jaw clenching
- Chills
- Sweating
- Hyperthermia
- Life-threatening kidney, heart, or liver problems
- Heat exhaustion
- Severe dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalances
How Long Does an MDMA Hangover Last?
Following these dangerous and unpleasant side effects is what is called an “MDMA hangover.” These are often less pleasant than some of the side effects experienced while you’re still high. During an MDMA hangover, a user might experience any of the following symptoms:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Impulsivity
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Memory loss
- Impaired ability to pay attention
- Loss of interest in sex
A lot of the time, recovery from Molly might take some time because users will combat these effects by taking more Molly.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Molly?
An MDMA hangover can typically feel the opposite of how you would on Molly. Rather than feeling all of the positive states associated with Molly, afterward, you will feel the inverse reactions. It is extremely common for many people to experience what is called an “afterglow” when the effects of MDMA go away. This is an increased calm feeling combined with affection for others. Afterglows do not happen for everybody; more often than not, an MDMA hangover will follow.
Because it depends on a person’s physical and psychological response to MDMA use, it’s difficult to say exactly how long it takes to recover from the effects of MDMA. For some, it could take less than a day. For others, it could become a condition that won’t go away. For some people, the experience of an MDMA hangover might be delayed. There is a term “Tuesday blues,” which refers to the idea of somebody taking MDMA on the weekend and not coming down until Tuesday. While the “blues” may persist for a few days after, the symptoms may improve day by day.
Learn More About MDMA Recovery with Zelus Recovery
Molly can be a scary drug to become addicted to. If you or a family member are in need of medical or psychiatric assistance in recovering from MDMA use, reach out to one of Zelus Recovery’s healthcare professionals today via 208.518.0797.
