MDMA
MDMA
Safety Guide
Dosage:
80 to 120 mg
Active/Lethal Ratio:
< .1
Addiction + dependence potential:
Low to moderate.
Forms:
Powder, pills
Legal status:
Schedule I substance: illegal for all people ❌
How many people use MDMA?
.9% of Americans have used MDMA in the past year
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or molly, is a popular recreational drug, especially in music festivals, raves, and clubs. It is a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception. Originally developed for therapeutic purposes, it gained popularity as a recreational substance due to its euphoric effects. Users often seek a heightened sense of empathy and connection. Taking MDMA is commonly called “rolling.”
Half life:
The half life of MDMA is 8 - 9 hours. It can be detected in bodily fluids for up to three days and in hair and urine samples for up to three months
WHAT_DOES_IT_FEEL_LIKE?
Physical effects
Dilated pupils
Jaw clenching, teeth grinding
Skin tingles
Muscle aches
Vomiting
Reduced appetite
Fast heartbeat
Heightened senses
Convulsions
Cognitive and Psychological effects
Euphoria
Energetic, confident
Reduced anxiety and inhibitions
Auditory and visual hallucinations
Floating sensations
Paranoia and aggression
Anxiety
Long term health Effects
Colds or flu
Increased risk of depression and anxiety
Needing to use more to get the same effect
Dependence on MDMA
Increased risk memory and concentration problems
Liver problems
Financial, work and social problems
How_to_use_mdma_safely
People who are using MDMA are at an increased risk of the following conditions:
Heat stroke, Serotonin Syndrome/neurotoxicity, hypernatremia (dehydration) or hyponatremia (over hydration)
Before taking MDMA
Mind your set and setting
Mind your mental and emotional well-being while using MDMA. It can intensify emotions and open up your feelings, so it's crucial to approach it mindfully. Here's what you need to keep in mind:
😌 Check-in with yourself: Before using MDMA, take a moment to assess your mental and emotional state. Ensure you're in a positive space and ready to embrace the experience.
Choose your setting wisely: Consider your environment and company. Aim for a supportive and safe setting where you feel comfortable and surrounded by trusted friends. Create an atmosphere that nurtures positive vibes and fosters a sense of security ;]
Test your substances!!!
😡 Know your source when it comes to getting your hands on some MDMA. Stick to trusted and reliable sources such as a reputable dealer you know. Be smart and stay away from sketchy street dealers or shady online vendors with a questionable reputation
🧪 Ensure you're rolling with the real deal: consider testing your MDMA using reagent test kits. These kits are like your trusty sidekicks when it comes to detecting any sneaky and potentially dangerous additives. Before you dive into the party mode, take a moment to test your MDMA and make sure you and your gang aren’t in for any surprises. Remember, reagent tests cannot tell you:
- how potent your drugs are, or the dosage of your substance
- if your drugs are pure or the exact composition of your substances
To test your ecstasy pill or molly for the presence of fentanyl, you should strong consider using a fentanyl test strip. Read more about fentanyl testing at https://www.userfriendly.club/post/fentanyl_safety
Learn about harm reduction and the risks of MDMA use:
☠️ Recognize signs of overdose, know how to respond, and familiarize yourself with the effects, risks, and potential distress related to MDMA use. If you're reading this guide, you are already off to a great start! Make sure you share with all your friends and anyone that you know who rolls.
⛑ Carry a Naloxone Kit: If attending events where multiple substances are present, consider carrying a naloxone kit (aka Narcan). Naloxone is used to reverse opioid overdoses, including overdoses on fentanyl. SUPER IMPORTANT NOTE: Naloxone or Narcan cannot be used to reverse an 'overdose' on anything other than opioid. Do not rely upon it for any other kinds of overdoses. Still, it can be essential for those who unintentionally consume fentanyl that has been laced into other substances and for those who are intentionally consuming opioids as well.
While taking MDMA
Start low and go slow:
🍬 Find your sweet spot and get to know how your body responds to MDMA. Begin with a low dose, take it easy, and give yourself a chance to see how you personally react. Safer dosages of MDMA are around 80 - 120 mg. When it comes to a substance as powerful as MDMA, less is more. Allow enough time for the effects to manifest before deciding to take more. MDMA can take up to an hour or more to fully kick in. Avoid redosing too frequently, as it can increase the risk of overconsumption and potential adverse effects. Remember, the goal is to have a good time while keeping your well-being in check.
Hydration and body temperature:
MDMA can dramatically raise your body temperature and increase the risk of dehydration. Keep yourself hydrated by sipping on water or isotonic beverages throughout the night.
However, excessive water intake can lead to hyponatremia, which is when the body reaches dangerously low sodium levels.
💧 Listen to your body, and drink enough to quench your thirst without going overboard (rule of thumb is to not drink more than a pint (500 mL) per hour). Remember, staying hydrated is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. So, keep that water bottle close and sip wisely. Here are some other things to consider so you can stay cool and hydrated while consuming MDMA.
👔 Dress the part: Make sure to dress appropriately for the environment. Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that allows air to flow and heat to escape. Staying cool is just as important as staying stylish!
🧊 Chill out: Take breaks from dancing and seek shady areas to cool down. Give your body a chance to relax and recharge.
❄️ Cooling methods: Consider using fans, misting stations, or cold towels to keep yourself refreshed and prevent overheating. These little tricks can make a world of difference.
💃🏽 Avoid crowded spaces and take breaks from the dance floor: Steer clear of crowded areas with poor ventilation. They're a recipe for overheating. Instead, find spots with better airflow and space to move around comfortably. Your body will thank you.
Redosing?
🍭 Consuming a supplementary dose, ranging from 1/3 to 1/2 of the initial amount, approximately 90 minutes later, can prolong the peak of the experience by several hours. However, exceeding this redosing range often results in heightened side effects, particularly an intensified hangover and come down.
After taking MDMA
Supplementation:
Using supplements can be a great way to protect your mind against the extreme negative effects caused by MDMA use!
Research indicates that certain supplements can potentially mitigate or prevent MDMA-induced neurotoxicity in rodent studies. Supplements might lower the risk of diminishing the effects of MDMA over time. Additionally, anecdotal reports propose that supplements could enhance afterglow and alleviate comedowns for certain individuals.
Check out this supplement kit by RollKit: https://rollkit.net
📅 The 3 Month Rule: Using MDMA too frequently can have negative effects on your mental and physical health. Avoid excessive use, practice moderation, and follow the "3-month rule" as a general guideline, allowing a minimum of three months between MDMA experiences. It is absolutely vital that you give your mind and body time to recover in between rolls. If you feel like you can't wait any longer, that is probably a sign that you are becoming dependent and should stay away from MDMA for a longer period of time. Doing MDMA too frequently can cause mental and physical health problems as discussed above, and can create a lessened day-to-day lived experience. Be very careful not to consume MDMA too often.
When can I roll again?
Prioritize rest and recovery:
😴 Rest and recovery should be a priority when it comes to MDMA. We know how exhilarating the experience can be, but remember to give your body the downtime it needs. After using MDMA, make sure to prioritize getting enough sleep to support your body's recovery process. Rest allows your mind and body to recharge. When the party winds down, definitely make sure to catch some Z’s.
Alternative_Names
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine
Adam, Beans, Clarity, Disco Biscuit, E, Ecstasy, Eve, Go, Hug Drug, Lover’s Speed, Peace, STP, X, and XTC
Neurochemistry
Dopamine — produces increased energy/activity and acts in the reward system to reinforce behaviors
Norepinephrine — MDMA significantly increases the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter associated with alertness and arousal. This surge in norepinephrine contributes to the drug's stimulating effects, including heightened energy and increased heart rate. However, it can also lead to side effects like anxiety and increased blood pressure, affecting both mood and the body's physiological responses.
Serotonin — MDMA primarily affects serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake, leading to increased serotonin release. This surge in serotonin contributes to the drug's mood-enhancing effects, creating feelings of empathy, euphoria, and emotional openness. However, MDMA can also deplete serotonin levels over time, potentially contributing to mood disturbances and affecting the body's ability to regulate mood and emotional well-being.
HOW_TO_TEST_MDMA
Common Adulterants
Ketamine
Caffeine
Bath salts (synthetic cathinones)
Cocaine
Methamphetamine
Fentanyl ❌❌❌
Testing MDMA
Important note: reagent kits like those listed below can tell you about the presence of certain substances in a drug sample. It cannot indicate purity or confirm the exact composition of a drug substance.
Marquis and Simon’s reagents
Purchase reagent kits at dancesafe.org
Fentanyl testing strips can and should be used to detect the presence of fentanyl and analogs in recreational substances.
MDMA_AND_OTHER_DRUGS
Alcohol + MDMA 🍺
Both substances affect neurotransmitter systems in the brain, and their combined use may amplify adverse effects. MDMA can lead to dehydration and increased body temperature, while alcohol can impair judgment and coordination. Mixing the two can exacerbate dehydration, increase the risk of heat-related issues, and impair cognitive and motor functions. Additionally, the stimulant properties of MDMA may mask the depressant effects of alcohol, leading to an increased risk of overconsumption. Avoid heavy drinking while using MDMA ❌
Marijuana + MDMA 🍃
Combining MDMA with marijuana can produce complex and unpredictable effects. MDMA is a stimulant with hallucinogenic properties, while marijuana is a psychoactive substance with sedative effects. Some individuals report that marijuana can enhance the sensory and euphoric effects of MDMA, while others may experience increased anxiety or confusion. Both substances can impair cognitive and motor functions, and their combined use may intensify these effects. The combination may pose risks such as increased heart rate, dehydration, and impaired judgment. Responsible use, awareness of personal tolerance, and consideration of potential interactions are important when using both MDMA and marijuana.
Stimulants + MDMA 😓
Combining MDMA with other stimulants can be dangerous and increase the risk of adverse effects. MDMA itself is a stimulant. Adding other stimulants, such as amphetamines or cocaine, can lead to overstimulation of these systems, potentially resulting in severe health risks.
The combined use of stimulants may exacerbate cardiovascular issues, increase the risk of overheating, and contribute to dehydration. The impact on mood and cognitive function can be unpredictable, potentially leading to anxiety, agitation, and impaired judgment. The risk of negative consequences, including overdose, is heightened when combining multiple stimulants.
Responsible substance use involves understanding potential interactions, being aware of individual tolerance levels, and avoiding combinations that may pose serious health risks. Combining MDMA with other stimulants is generally discouraged due to the heightened potential for adverse effects.
Psychedelics + MDMA 😵💫
Combining MDMA with psychedelics can result in a complex and unpredictable interaction. The combined use may intensify the emotional and sensory effects, potentially enhancing feelings of empathy and connection. However, the interaction can also lead to heightened psychological intensity and sensory overload, increasing the risk of anxiety or confusion. Both substances can affect serotonin levels, and their combination may result in an increased strain on the serotonin system, potentially contributing to serotonin syndrome.
Depressants + MDMA 🤒
MDMA is a stimulant with empathogenic effects, while depressants act as central nervous system depressants, slowing down brain activity. The combination can lead to conflicting effects, where the stimulant properties of MDMA may mask the sedative effects of depressants, increasing the risk of overconsumption.
This combination can strain the cardiovascular system, increase the risk of dehydration, and impair both cognitive and motor functions. It may also result in unpredictable and intensified emotional states, potentially leading to anxiety or confusion.
Commonly asked Questions
about MDMA
What is the difference between MDMA, ecstasy, and molly? What about MDA?
MDMA and Molly are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in their meanings. Ecstasy is another street name for MDMA, and MDA is a chemically similar compound. Here's a breakdown of these terms:
Molly is a street name for MDMA in its pure crystalline form (as a powder or in crystals). The term "Molly" is often used to imply a purer form of MDMA compared to Ecstasy pills, which might be adulterated or cut with other substances. However, there's no guarantee that a substance sold as "Molly" is pure, as it could still be adulterated with other drugs or substances.
Ecstasy is a street name for MDMA, usually in the form of a pill or tablet. Ecstasy pills often contain MDMA, but they may also contain other substances, such as amphetamines, caffeine, or other drugs. The quality and composition of ecstasy pills can vary widely, and they may be sold with various logos or imprints.
MDA (3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine) is a chemical analog of MDMA. While structurally similar, MDA tends to have more pronounced hallucinogenic effects compared to MDMA. Like MDMA, MDA affects serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels in the brain. MDA is sometimes sold on its own, but it can also be found as an adulterant in MDMA or ecstasy
Can I overdose on MDMA?
Overdose is a complicated term that takes on different meaning depending on what drug or combination of drugs are being talked about. When it comes to MDMA, several serious negative health conditions can arise do to over consumption of MDMA, as mentioned above. Overconsumption of MDMA can cause drastic increases in body temperature which lead to liver, kidney, and cardiovascular system failure.
There are many steps that you can take to avoid an MDMA 'overdose', such as:
- Consuming an appropriate dosage of MDMA, usually no more than 120 mg and a small 1/3 dosage redose.
- Drinking no more than 500 mL of water per hour
- Reducing your body temperature through a number of strategies
- Avoiding poly drug use
Scroll up to our HOW_TO_USE_MDMA_SAFELY section to learn more!
Is MDMA addictive? Can I develop a tolerance for MDMA?
Research has yet to provide a conclusive answer regarding the addictive nature of MDMA. However, it impacts many of the same neurotransmitter systems in the brain that are targeted by other substances known to be addictive. Experiments have demonstrated that animals exhibit self-administration of MDMA, a crucial indicator of a drug's potential for addiction. Nevertheless, the extent of self-administration is lower than that observed with certain other addictive drugs like cocaine.
Both human and animal data indicate that regular use of MDMA leads to adaptations in the serotonin and dopamine systems associated with substance use disorder and related behaviors, such as heightened impulsivity. Despite this, limited studies have explored MDMA addiction or dependency in individuals with a history of use in the general population. The diverse results obtained from these studies likely stem from variations in population samples and the use of different measurement methods.
Some individuals who use MDMA do report symptoms indicative of addiction, including persistent use despite negative physical or psychological consequences, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and experiencing cravings.
Can I do MDMA two days in a row?
The scientific evidence strongly suggests that using MDMA on multiple consecutive days poses significant risks and is generally not considered safe.
Serotonin Depletion: MDMA releases large amounts of serotonin in the brain. Repeated use without sufficient time for serotonin levels to replenish can lead to significant serotonin depletion. Studies in rodents and primates have shown that moderate to high doses of MDMA, given over multiple days, can damage nerve cells containing serotonin.
Neurotoxicity: Research indicates that MDMA can be neurotoxic to serotonin neurons, especially with repeated or high-dose use. Long-lasting effects on the serotonin system have been observed in primates exposed to MDMA, including reduced numbers of serotonergic neurons seven years later.
Cognitive and Emotional Effects: MDMA's impact on serotonin and other neurotransmitter systems can lead to cognitive impairment, emotional disturbances, and mood-related issues. Binge-dosing with MDMA has been associated with changes in serotonin transporter expression and alterations in genes related to serotonin synthesis, which may contribute to confusion, depression, anxiety, paranoia, impaired memory, and attention issues.
Safety Concerns: Using MDMA on consecutive days increases the risk of adverse effects, including heightened potential for dehydration, overheating, and serotonin syndrome. Individual responses to MDMA can vary, and some people may be more susceptible to the negative effects of repeated use.
Addiction Potential: While the addictive potential of MDMA is still a subject of research, some individuals report symptoms of addiction, including continued use despite negative consequences, tolerance, withdrawal, and craving.
Can you microdose on MDMA?
MDMA microdosing involves consuming sub-threshold, typically small, regular doses of MDMA. Unlike traditional therapeutic uses of psychedelics, microdosing aims to achieve subtle benefits without inducing the full psychedelic effects associated with MDMA. Proponents claim potential positive effects on mood, creativity, and social interactions, but rigorous scientific studies on the safety, efficacy, and long-term impacts of MDMA microdosing are limited. As with any substance use, caution, responsible dosing, and awareness of potential risks are essential.
Will MDMA affect my memory and cognition?
MDMA leads to a significant depletion of serotonin in the brain, causing negative psychological effects for several days after use. Research on rodents and primates indicates that repeated moderate to high doses of MDMA can damage serotonin-containing nerve cells, with long-lasting effects observed in primates. Additionally, binge-dosing with MDMA in rats results in decreased serotonin transporter expression and changes in genes related to serotonin synthesis. Low serotonin levels are associated with memory issues and depressed mood, consistent with findings in humans reporting confusion, depression, anxiety, paranoia, and impaired memory and attention due to MDMA use. Furthermore, MDMA's impact on norepinephrine contributes to cognitive impairment, emotional excitation, and euphoria during use.
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