What Effects Does Molly (MDMA) Have On The Brain?

Taking molly affects neurotransmitter levels in the brain, changes blood flow to specific areas and can result in brain damage. MDMA stimulates the brain, and high levels of neurotransmitters are released and/or not reabsorbed. After MDMA wears off, the levels of these neurotransmitters plummet, and the brain struggles to restore them back to normal levels.

Side effects of molly on the brain  can be serious and include permanent, brain damage and impairment.

How Molly Affects Neurotransmitters (Brain Chemical Messengers)

Neurotransmitters are the chemicals that neurons release in the brain to communicate with itself and the rest of the body. Neurons synthesize, transport, reabsorb, and break down neurotransmitters.

Molly’s Effect On Serotonin

Serotonin is the neurotransmitter most affected by MDMA, with higher levels being released than dopamine and norepinephrine. Serotonin assists with regulating pain, mood, sleep, and appetite.

People who use molly have reported:

• paranoia
• depression
• attention issues
• memory problems
• anxiety

Serotonin nerves are significantly damaged in those exposed to molly for just a few days. Even years after taking molly, the number of serotonin neurons may still be lower than average. Serotonin transporter proteins and serotonin synthesis enzymes have been damaged after binging several doses of MDMA in one day.

Molly’s Effects On Dopamine And Norepinephrine

MDMA affects norepinephrine and dopamine as well, resulting in euphoria, excessive positive emotions, and cognitive issues.

Excess dopamine has played a key role in developing an addiction.

How Molly Affects Different Areas Of The Brain

After using molly, the hippocampus, amygdala, cingulate, and specific cortices in the brain have lower activity. These areas assist in processing emotions, learning, and memory.

Molly abuse can lead to decreased blood flow to the:

• thalamus
• amygdala
• cingulate
• somatosensory
• motor cortices

These areas are involved in motor and sensory functions, emotion formation, and learning.

The Risk Of Serotonin Syndrome From Molly Use

One of the most acutely dangerous short-term risks of taking MDMA is serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by dangerously elevated serotonin levels. Because molly triggers a massive release of serotonin, the risk exists with MDMA alone, but it increases dramatically when combined with other substances that also affect serotonin, including SSRIs, MAOIs, and some over-the-counter cold medications.

Symptoms range from mild agitation, rapid heart rate, and muscle twitching to severe fever, seizures, and loss of consciousness, all of which require immediate emergency medical attention. People who take any antidepressant or serotonin-affecting medication are at particularly high risk and should be aware that even a single dose of MDMA can trigger serotonin syndrome.

Treatment For Molly Addiction

Finding treatment services for molly addiction can involve locating an inpatient drug treatment facility that provides medically supervised detox, counseling, group therapy, 12-step recovery groups, dual diagnosis treatment, and aftercare services.

Browse our directory or reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for more information about addiction recovery.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff