Molly (ecstasy) is a popular club drug that provides intense euphoric and stimulant effects. Long-term Molly abuse can lead to severe physical and mental health complications, including addiction. People who become addicted to Molly must seek medically-assisted treatment to overcome it.

This article will explore what happens when a person stops using Molly. It will cover:

  • The effects and risks of MDMA, ecstasy, or Molly
  • The physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal from ecstasy
  • How an ecstasy detox program can help people manage the symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal
  • Where to find treatment for MDMA withdrawal and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggle with ecstasy abuse or addiction, you are not alone. MDMA addiction can become life-threatening. Most people need treatment to manage MDMA withdrawal symptoms.

First Step Behavioral Health offers treatment and support. Contact our specialists today to learn about our treatment facility, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.

What is Molly?

“Molly” is a slang term for 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA). Many people call this drug “ecstasy”. Molly is a synthetic drug that people can take as a pill or snort in powder form.

MDMA may contain caffeine, ketamine, amphetamines, cocaine, or other stimulating substances. People may use this stimulant drug at parties, concerts, or other social situations. It causes a range of pleasurable physical symptoms and mental health effects that can make people want to use more.

Over time, Molly abuse can lead to tolerance (needing more to get the same effects) and addiction.

Understanding the Effects and Risks of Molly Abuse

People may ingest Molly in several ways, including snorting a powdered form of the drug or taking it in a pill form. The side effects of MDMA typically develop within 20 to 30 minutes and include:

  • Increased energy
  • Lowered inhibitions
  • Increased sexual arousal
  • Heightened senses
  • Altered sense of reality
  • A desire for physical closeness and touch
  • Deeper empathy
  • Restlessness
  • A feeling of meaningful connection with others

People may also experience unwanted side effects when using Molly, including:

  • Irritability
  • Panic attacks
  • Muscle tension
  • Poor focus and attention
  • Nausea
  • Jaw clenching
  • Chills
  • Lightheadedness or fainting
  • High blood pressure
  • Dangerously elevated body temperature
  • Aggression
  • Memory problems

People who use MDMA may become dehydrated or overheated, which can be life-threatening. Some people become excessively thirsty while under the influence of ecstasy and may drink too much water. This can lead to a fatal condition called water toxicity.

The Ecstasy Withdrawal Timeline: Understanding Molly Withdrawal Symptoms

People who abuse Molly may become physically dependent on the drug. It can be very challenging to stop taking it, even when it causes unwanted or dangerous consequences.

People who quit taking Molly are likely to experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that increase the risk of relapse. Here is an overview of the Molly withdrawal timeline and symptoms people can experience.

Day one

Withdrawal symptoms may develop within the first 24 hours of a person’s last dose of ecstasy. Symptoms like depression and insomnia are common. Other typical withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Anxiety
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory problems
  • Restlessness or agitation
  • Confusion

People may also experience intense cravings for Molly, making it challenging to avoid relapse.

Day two

Symptoms typically worsen over the first two or three days of detox. Many people experience a peak in symptoms around day three. The risk of relapse remains high, and people require supervision and support to avoid relapse.

Days three to five

After about three days, people may begin to notice an improvement in their symptoms. In many cases, people will notice their symptoms have disappeared by the fifth day of the detox process.

Age, gender, mental health conditions, general health, and other factors can affect the length and severity of a person’s withdrawal symptoms. People going through Molly withdrawal can benefit from a medically-supported detox program that includes support, treatment, and supervision.

Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction

Ecstasy addiction treatment typically occurs in stages. Many people begin treatment in an inpatient rehab program with round-the-clock access to treatment. A medically-supported detox program may include:

  • Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety
  • Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
  • 24/7 supervision and access to medical care
  • Holistic therapies like yoga and mindfulness to soothe the mind and body
  • A supportive, secure environment

After completing detox, people can continue in a comprehensive addiction treatment program. Comprehensive rehab treatment plans may include:

  • Screenings and assessments
  • Medical care and medication management
  • Behavioral therapies
  • Individual, group, and family counseling
  • Relapse prevention education
  • Holistic therapies like mindfulness, exercise, creative therapies, and nutrition support
  • Aftercare planning and support programs

The length of time and level of care someone requires depends on the length and severity of their addiction. Many people complete an inpatient program before moving on to outpatient rehab.

Find Treatment Now

Overcoming Molly abuse or addiction can be challenging. First Step Behavioral Health offers comprehensive, compassionate treatment programs to help people address the roots of their addiction and move forward.

Contact the intake specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

  1. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Ecstasy Or MDMA (also Known As Molly)
  2. Science Direct: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) impairs cognitive function during withdrawal via activation of the arachidonic acid cascade in the hippocampus

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