Ecstasy Detoxification Treatment*
Ecstasy, also known as “E” or “X,” in its pure form is n-methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine, or MDMA. This commonly-used party drug gives users feelings of euphoria, intimacy, heightened self-esteem, intensified sensations, and diminished anxiety. This seemingly innocent drug comes with great risk, however. Some studies warn that the potent stimulant action of the drug puts users at risk for possible serious damage to the central nervous system.
Users often ignore the dangers of the drug and think of it as a harmless “feel-good” drug, not a hardcore street drug like cocaine or heroin. Users say it’s harmless, even socially helpful. It enhances a good time, and helps them feel close to others. Users cite the fact that pharmaceutical-grade MDMA was successfully used by therapists in the 1970s. However, experimentation with Ecstasy is risky. The chefs in illegal labs often produce a product more akin to methamphetamine than MDMA, which when taken in large oral doses can cause a heart attack, a seizure, or a stroke. Even if the pill swallowed happens to be MDMA, when the high wears off, these side effects may follow:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Impaired attention, concentration, drive and motivation
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Exhaustion
Some of these side effects last only a short time – 3 to 7 days. However, with regular use, depression and other symptoms can become chronic problems. Some research shows that MDMA users show significant short-term and long-term verbal memory impairment. This is not surprising since those who experiment with ecstasy often suffer from a co-occurring mood disorder. Also, when Ecstasy is combined with certain drugs, especially cocaine, the results are often life-threatening. Even combining MDMA with some anti-depressants is dangerous.
MDMA use can easily lead to dependence, defined as the continued use despite knowledge of physical or psychological harm, withdrawal effects, and tolerance. In other words, it is highly emotionally addictive and the side effects and withdrawal are devastating. For individuals who have been using Ecstasy regularly, it is critical to get help through a detoxification program.
Morningside can support clients through detoxification and treatment for Ecstasy abuse. Detox center staff supervises and manages withdrawal symptoms, keeping clients as safe and as comfortable as possible. Clients detoxing from an Ecstasy binge get the rest and nutritional support needed in a home-like environment. Clients receive therapeutic support and diagnostic services, as well as nutritional counseling and exercise to help them get their strength and health back. One client described his detox: “I’d been up for two days and was starting to really trip. I was drinking a bunch of water, but I later learned that that was so stupid. E does something to your kidneys and I got over hydrated. I had like a little seizure. I was scared and sick. I really needed the security and reassurance I got from everybody at Morningside. The counselors, my therapist and the other clients were huge in those first few days.”
Following detoxification, individualized addiction treatment will equip clients to stay clean. Recovering MDMA users learn to deal with temptations that arise, avoid triggers, meet their personal goals, and get their life back.
*Detoxification services are not provided at Morningside Recovery facilities. We work closely with local, fully licensed detoxification centers that provide the highest level of care to our clients. If a client requires detoxification and is admitting to any of Morningside's programs, our clinical team will follow the client’s detoxification treatment at these local facilities. If the detoxification period is to exceed 72 hours, we will also begin private therapy and other treatment services at the designated location. Our consulting physician and psychiatrist will also follow each client’s case at this outside center in order to ensure a smooth transition into any of our many levels of care. Although outcome studies have shown significant increase in client success when receiving full or extended treatment services after detoxification, if you require only a detoxification without further treatment, we are happy to refer you to one of the highly regarded and trusted detoxification facilities that we utilize.
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