Ecstasy (MDMA) is a party drug which can trigger the development of psychological dependence after sustained use. This may lead to the presentation of withdrawal symptoms of ecstasy upon discontinuation. Side effects of ecstasy withdrawal include anxiety, depression, and intense cravings for MDMA. Read on to find out how to recover from ecstasy abuse.
Ecstasy Withdrawal Symptoms
Ecstasy, also known as molly or MDMA, is a synthetic party drug that triggers feelings of empathy and euphoria. Although MDMA is not physically addictive, regular use of the drug can provoke severe psychological dependence.
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Ecstasy works by boosting the activity of chemical messengers in the brain – neurotransmitters – related to happiness and empathy, leading to the characteristic ecstasy high. This surge in neurotransmitter activity, though, rapidly depletes the natural reserves required for these emotions, leading to dependence over time.
Withdrawal symptoms of ecstasy manifest when someone who is dependent on MDMA stops using it. MDMA withdrawal can be challenging without medical oversight. This period often involves negative emotions like depression and anxiety manifesting, alongside powerful cravings for ecstasy.
Although ecstasy withdrawal symptoms are primarily psychological in presentation, some people might also encounter physical symptoms.
The severity and duration of MDMA withdrawal varies from person to person and can be influenced by variables like age, gender, genetics, tolerance, usage patterns, and the presence of co-occurring mental health disorders or substance use disorders.
MDMA withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Depression
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Agitation
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Focus issues
- Appetite loss
- Memory loss
Ecstasy Withdrawal Timeline
Ecstasy detox unfolds as follows:
Days 1 to 3
- Feelings of anxiety
- Increased irritability
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia
- Challenges with concentration
- Paranoia
- Onset of depression
Days 4 to 10
- Continuing depression
- Intensified cravings for ecstasy
- Ongoing sleep complications
- Experiencing brain fog or memory issues
Most withdrawal symptoms dissipate after two weeks, but some people may encounter lingering psychological symptoms for months after discontinuation.
How Long Does Ecstasy Withdrawal Last?
While ecstasy withdrawal has not been as extensively documented as that of many other addictive substances, the experience of withdrawal from MDMA has been likened to the relatively mild withdrawal symptoms associated with stimulants. Typically, symptoms of stimulant withdrawal begin within 24 hours after the last dose and tend to subside within 3 to 5 days. The duration and severity of MDMA withdrawal symptoms can be affected by factors like the extent, frequency, and duration of use.
How to Recover from Ecstasy
While FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) has not officially approved any medications specifically for the treatment of ecstasy addiction, supervised medical detoxification provides a secure environment to manage the effects of acute intoxication and ongoing withdrawal symptoms.
Detox is only the first step in the recovery process, though. Ongoing treatment in an inpatient or outpatient setting provides people with the tools they need to maintain abstinent from party drugs after the completion of treatment.
Inpatient ecstasy rehab offers comprehensive care in a residential setting. People remain at the facility for 30 to 90 days or more. People with severe addictions or co-occurring mental health conditions often find that inpatient rehab provides the best road to recovery. Treatments for ecstasy addiction typically involve talk therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), counseling (one-to-one and group), family therapy, and holistic therapies.
Individuals with milder substance use disorders often find that outpatient treatment is sufficient for overcoming ecstasy addiction. More flexible and affordable, outpatient rehab delivers the same services as residential rehab, enabling people to engage with treatment around their existing commitments.
Get Treatment for Party Drug Withdrawal at California Detox
If you or someone that you care about needs help addressing party drug abuse and withdrawal, reach out to California Detox – we’ll show you how to detox ecstasy safely and comfortably. Even though ecstasy withdrawal is not generally life-threatening, supervised detoxification streamlines the process and facilitates the transition to ongoing inpatient treatment at our luxury rehab in Laguna Beach, CA.
Every addiction is different, so expect to engage with an individualized blend of the following treatments:
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Motivational therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Group therapy
- Individual counseling
- Holistic therapies
- Family therapy
- Aftercare support
Call 949.694.8305 today and kickstart your recovery from party drug abuse right away.
