Understanding Ecstasy Withdrawal

Understanding Ecstasy Withdrawal: What is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is an illicit stimulant with a shape-shifting reputation in the world of drugs of abuse. Although MDMA (3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is the clinical description, there are a host of other equally alluring monikers such as Molly and Ecstasy, which remains one of the most popular names. Studies show that while most individuals in the Ecstasy use demographic are aware of the drugs euphoric and energy booting properties, few demonstrated or showed interest in understanding Ecstasy Withdrawal. In fact, this lack of understanding Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms was a major contributor to continued use or knowing how to stop taking Ecstasy when uncontrollable cravings become a problem. 

Understanding Ecstasy Withdrawal Symptoms

There is a common and potentially dangerous misconception that Ecstasy is not an addictive substance.  However, as a result of multiple research and clinical studies, there is sufficient scientific evidence to substantiate the dependence criteria for Ecstasy.  Dependence is technically defined by the individual’s recognition that they do not know how to stop taking Ecstasy and Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms experienced when chronic drug use is suddenly halted.  As such, understanding ecstasy withdrawal symptoms could help to temper Ecstasy use that often lead to dependency and addiction.

Of most importance, is recognizing the potential for physical and psychological harm that can occur with habituated use of Ecstasy. Understanding Ecstasy withdrawal and the range of unpleasant Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms could minimize the number of recreational users who want to but do not know how to stop taking Ecstasy.

Ecstasy Withdrawal Symptoms

Based on studies conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and other research entities, Ecstasy increases the activity of Dopamine, Norepinephrine, and Serotonin, which are important chemicals in the brain. Once dependency occurs, imbalances in these chemicals contribute to the diversity and complexity of Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms which may include agitation, cravings, depression, sleep disruptions, concentration, memory problems, and paranoia.

  • Agitation is a common Ecstasy withdrawal symptom that attests to the psychological component associated with Ecstasy abuse. This Ecstasy withdrawal symptom can be so profound that users often confess that it often drives them to use this synthetic stimulant to alleviate this symptom.
  • Cravings is one of the most disconcerting withdrawal symptom simply because it drives drug use even in those who are sincerely trying to stop taking Ecstasy. Many Ecstasy users report resuming drug use after a period of sobriety due to intense cravings for Ecstasy.
  • Depression is recognized as one of the primary Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms. This Ecstasy withdrawal symptom has the potential to be the most dangerous since it can occur in those who report using this drugs only a few times in a social context. Based on recent research; even recreational use of Ecstasy has the potential to cause long term brain damage that often result in depression. According to study outcomes from the London Metropolitan University; levels of depression that occurred in people that had used Ecstasy only a few times were as much as four times higher than those who had never used the drug. Also, because suicidal attempts and completed suicide is a common factor with depression, this Ecstasy withdrawal symptom is particularly concerning.
  • Memory and Concentration Problems are common ecstasy withdrawal symptoms that usually endure for a long time after halting use of this drug.
  • Sleep deprivation or severe disruptions in normal sleep pattern has been reported by some users as a noticeable Ecstasy withdrawal symptom. Unfortunately, this is a condition that if left untreated, can result in serious and chronic health problems such as heart and kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity, as well as depression.
  • Paranoia and or Psychosis typically occur with long-term chronic use of Ecstasy. This ecstasy withdrawal symptom is usually attributed to the impact of the drug on serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain.

If you or a loved one has been in long term use of Ecstasy or consuming the drug recreationally, it is possible to experience one or all of these Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms. Understanding Ecstasy withdrawals can help to avoid experiencing dependence, addiction, and the accompanying harmful effects of substance abuse associated with this drug. The good news is, there are effective treatment programs that can show you how to stop taking Ecstasy and provide a safe environment and medical oversight for individuals going through Ecstasy withdrawals.

Get help as soon as possible to minimize the risk of irreversible or potential long term effects of this drug.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

is a proud alumni member of WhiteSands Treatment. After living a life of chaos, destruction and constant let downs, Mark was able to make a complete turnaround that sparked a new way of life. He is serious about his recovery along with helping others. At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer support to you in your homes or when you are out living in your daily lives.