Many times, MDMA is cut with cutting agents like baking soda or weak stimulants, like powdered caffeine, to lessen the drug’s effects and increase profit margins.
It is not uncommon for MDMA to be cut with uppers, like cocaine and ephedrine.
Other illicit and/or potent drugs might also be included in ecstasy production, such as:
- heroin
- fentanyl
- ketamine
- methamphetamine
- dextromethorphan
- PCP
It is difficult to know if a molly pill is “pure” MDMA because of the range of other drugs that can be pressed into Ecstasy pills.
Why Is Molly Cut With Other Substances?
Because MDMA is illegal to possess and produce, it is entirely up to a drug producer to create MDMA in pill form.
Drug manufacturers may cut molly or MDMA to bulk their products — in that way, sales will increase for less of the product.
They may also cut molly with other drugs to enhance the effects of molly for a more potent high (uppers), or to counteract some of the more adverse effects of molly (downers).
How Does Cutting MDMA Alter Its Appearance?
The various cutting agents or drug additives generally do not impact the color of pills. Many ecstasy pills are white or off-white.
However, because branding plays a role in signaling quality, other pills may have blue, green, yellow, or orange coloring.
Many pills are pressed into unique shapes or can have “branding” stamped into the pills.
Effects Of Molly That Is Cut With Other Drugs Or Substances
When molly is cut with uppers like caffeine, ephedrine, or cocaine, the effects that include high energy levels and a racing heart can be amplified.
This can lead to dangerous outcomes, including heart attacks.
People that take MDMA laced with opioids or downers can experience symptoms of overdose, like cardiac or respiratory arrest, if they do not have an existing tolerance for these drugs.
Many negative effects that occur from a negative MDMA experience are exacerbated by drug interactions from cutting agents and additives.
Getting Help With Molly Abuse
Oftentimes, MDMA that is cut with drugs to create a more “potent” experience can lead to more dangerous outcomes.
Drug abuse can impact people in more ways than many understand. If you or a loved one need to make a change, then drug treatment can give you the tools to get back to a healthy, sober life.
Call our recovery helpline for more information on the best treatment programs to fit your needs. We’re here to help.
Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse — MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/mdma-ecstasymolly - United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) —Ecstasy or MDMA (also known as Molly)
https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/ecstasy-or-mdma-also-known-molly
