Skip to navigationSkip to content

MDMA

  • Extasy
  • E
  • Molly
  • Party pills
  • Speed
  • MD

MDMA

What is it? A central nervous system disruptor and stimulant.

Also called… Ecstasy, E, Molly, party pills, speed, MD.

What does it look like? Capsules, powder, or tablets.

How is it used? Taken orally (by mouth); sometimes snorted, smoked, or injected.

When does the buzz start? About 30 to 90 minutes after consumption.

How long does the buzz last? About 2 to 6 hours.

Someone might choose to use MDMA or ecstasy to…

  • amplify their senses

  • increase energy levels

  • feel excitement

  • experience a sense of well-being with themselves and others around them

  • feel more confident, talkative, empathetic, or euphoric

  • bring out their extroverted side

  • feel more sensual

However, MDMA and ecstasy can also…

  • induce anxiety

  • increase body temperature and lead to hot flashes and dehydration

  • cause tachycardia (heart palpitations), high blood pressure, and agitation

  • lead to sleep problems

  • cause confusion

  • make urination difficult

  • cause nausea or vomiting

  • trigger feelings of panic

  • cause jaw clenching and teeth grinding

  • lead to tics or involuntary movements

  • in the days following use: insomnia, mood swings, sadness, and decreased motivation

Regular MDMA use can increase your tolerance (needing more to get the same effect). There is a significant risk of dependence. MDMA is especially not recommended for people with asthma, epilepsy, heart conditions, diabetes, liver disease, fragile mental health, or sleep disorders.

Using MDMA is riskier if you are taking HIV medication or antidepressants.

If You Use MDMA or Ecstasy…

  • Be aware that substances sold as ecstasy often contain other toxic substances.

  • Start with small amounts to assess potency and quality, and space out doses to avoid unpleasant surprises.

  • Avoid mixing substances; combination with other substances can be risky and the effects can become even more unpredictable. Mixing with other stimulants, such as speed or cocaine, is especially risky because it increases the strain on the heart.

  • Avoid activities that require clear judgment or concentration.

  • Wear light clothing, avoid covering your head, take breaks, eat, and stay hydrated.

  • Plan for your comedown and the following days; end the night gradually and make sure you can rest afterward.

  • Know that drug testing services,  where you can have your substances checked,  are available.

  • Stay close to someone you trust, ideally someone who has not used substances.