What are the long-term consequences of Ecstasy?
The long-term effects of ecstasy are part of ongoing scientific research. Especially excessive use (regular and high doses) leads to psychological symptoms (e.g. anxiety, sleep problems, restlessness), which are due to changes in the brain. Long-term consumption is associated with the risk of developing dependency, which leads to various health and social problems.
The stomach problems, which many people also have during consumption, can be permanent and in women there can be disturbances in the menstrual cycle. Taking ecstasy damages nerve cells that react to serotonin. This damage, which occurs in various areas of the brain, results in slight functional limitations in the areas of memory, behavioral control, attention and emotions.
The deficits can persist for up to two years, even if strict renunciation is practiced. The regular use of ecstasy can lead to the development of permanent mental disorders, which subsequently require treatment. Depression and psychosis play a particularly important role in this.
Various cases have been observed in which after use permanent perception disorders in the form of hallucinations, constant panic attacks or other disturbance patterns (e.g. depersonalization) have been observed. Although the long-term effects of single or infrequent use are moderate, they should not be taken lightly (not least because the study situation is still very uncertain). Memory problems and/or drugs – causes & treatment
Duration of the effect
How long the effect of the Ecstasys taken lasts depends on various factors. On the one hand, the dosage plays a major role. There are a few rules of thumb that are essential for safe and responsible consumption, if it is absolutely necessary.
You should never take a whole pill at once, as the actual amount of MDMA present can never be predicted with certainty. One half or one quarter (especially for pills advertised by the seller as high-dose) is perfectly sufficient for inexperienced consumers. This avoids the risks of overdose.
In general, an acceptable amount can be calculated as 1.5 mg MDMA per kg body weight. Also the rest of the substance should not be taken directly, just because the effect is delayed. The onset of action can be after 20 minutes, but also after one hour of waiting.
When taken in pill form, the first effects usually appear after 20 to 45 minutes. The effect then lasts between 4 and 6 hours depending on the dosage. If Ecstasy in powder form over the nasal mucous membrane is consumed, the effect begins more violently and faster after 5 to 15 minutes.
The duration is reduced to 1 to 3 hours. Consumers must note that a lower dose already achieves the corresponding effect. It is difficult to prolong the effect of ecstasy without risking overdose or dangerous interactions with other substances.The body starts to break down the drug when it is taken and this breakdown is difficult to influence.
Drinking grapefruit juice is supposed to slow down the enzymes that break down MDMA. Smoking cannabis is also said to temporarily increase the effect. However, there is always a certain risk of mixed consumption, as the body is unnecessarily stressed.
The mood and the location have a great influence on the effect of ecstasy. For example, if a user enjoys music and dancing, the effect can be prolonged. It has also been reported by consumers that especially in the typical club atmosphere (loud music, little light), the effect lasts longer than in ordinary places.
