MDMA

MDMA is a synthetic drug with stimulant effects that can produce euphoria and strong feelings of closeness to other people. Sold as ecstasy or molly, it appears in tablets, powder and crystals. People use it for dancing and socialising, or seek an emotionally open, personally meaningful experience.

Feeling able to talk about everything does not establish that an underlying problem has been resolved. Nor does taking it with friends reproduce a therapy session. Street names and appearances do not verify contents: tablets may contain other drugs, and crystals do not guarantee purity or safety.

You may feel energetic, affectionate, talkative and more sensitive to physical sensations. Jaw clenching, sweating, nausea and a racing heart can accompany this. Anxiety or panic can interrupt an experience you expected to enjoy.

Afterwards, low mood, irritability, poor sleep and a lack of motivation can follow. Experiences vary, and sleep loss or other substances can contribute. Severe or persistent distress deserves help rather than dismissal as an inevitable comedown. Suicidal thoughts need urgent support.

MDMA can cause overheating, seizures and serious heart, liver or kidney complications. Excessive water intake can also be dangerous by lowering blood sodium. Other stimulants and certain antidepressants can cause dangerous interactions, including serotonin toxicity. High fever, confusion, rigidity or seizures require urgent medical attention.

Dependence can develop, with anxiety, insomnia and low mood reported after stopping repeated use. Do not stop prescribed medication to take MDMA. Tell emergency staff what you took, including combinations. In Spain, illicit possession or use in public places can lead to fines; trafficking is a criminal offence.