Short-Term Effects Of Molly (MDMA) Abuse

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D.

Updated on June 21, 2021

MDMA is a synthetic and illicit drug that produces feelings of increased energy and pleasure. It can also produce severe negative physical effects almost immediately after taking it.

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MDMA is a synthetic drug that is more commonly referred to as molly or Ecstasy.

It is a fast-acting but short-lasting drug which has some short-term effects that are immediate and some that last for days after taking it.

Short-Term Effects Of Molly Abuse

Molly is oftentimes considered a “club drug” because it causes a burst of energy and a sense of euphoria when taken.

This may create a sense of heightened sociability and happiness in the user. Behind the scenes, however, Molly abuse can have serious negative consequences.

Short-term effects of molly abuse include:

  • heightened body temperature
  • high blood pressure
  • panic attacks
  • illogical thinking
  • involuntary teeth grinding
  • nausea
  • loss of consciousness
  • seizure

Molly abuse can be particularly dangerous for those with certain pre-existing conditions, particularly those with cardiovascular issues.

It can be even more dangerous when mixed with other drugs or medications.

How Long Do The Short-Term Effects Of Molly Last?

Molly is fast-acting and a single dose will cause effects that last for about three to six hours in most people.

However, as molly is a synthetic drug, its potency can vary significantly from source to source.

Molly is usually taken in either tablet or capsule form but can be found in liquid and powder forms as well.

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Molly is known for having a difficult “crash” period.

Because of this, it is not uncommon for people to take multiple doses in order to keep their high going longer. This can result in a dangerous dependency on molly.

Continued Short-Term Effects Of Molly Abuse

While the high of molly is relatively short-lived, people will continue to feel its effects for days afterward, oftentimes reporting a very unpleasant crash, known as the comedown.

Continued short-term effects of Molly abuse include:

  • depression
  • anxiety
  • memory loss
  • irritability
  • aggression
  • lack of appetite
  • insomnia
  • difficulty concentrating

These effects can last up to a week after the last dose was taken. A person addicted to molly can find themselves fluctuating between severe highs and lows.

Molly abuse can even cause heart arrhythmias and other forms of heart disease, and in the worst cases, death.

Finding Addiction Treatment For Molly

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

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

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