Plugging MDMA/Molly | Dangers Of Rectal Ecstasy Use

There are many different ways people use drugs, including smoking, swallowing pills, snorting, or injecting them. One method that isn’t talked about as much but is still used by some people is called “plugging,” which is inserting drugs rectally. While this method of drug use doesn’t get as much attention as more common methods like snorting or injecting, some people plug party drugs like MDMA (molly) because they want to feel the drug’s effects more quickly and intensely.

However, plugging molly is an extremely risky and dangerous way to use this already harmful drug. This method can cause serious health problems and increases the risk of overdose because the drug enters the bloodstream quickly through blood vessels in the rectum.

Why Do People Plug Drugs Like Molly?

Typically, any medicines used rectally will be dispersed quickly and more effectively through the entire body than if ingested orally. Drugs taken this way will have a shorter peak time and their effects will not be felt for a long, extended period of time.

For illegal drugs such as molly taken like this, plugging is generally a method used by people that abuse drugs. Sill, it can be used by self-described casual or recreational drug users. People who use drugs in this way do so despite the upfront consequences.

Potential Side Effects Of Plugging Molly

Rectal administration of illegal substances carries an increased risk of numerous negative side effects. In general, the improper or unsanitary drug application, plus the chemical interaction with sensitive tissues, may cause damage to the intestines and rectum. Healthy people may experience very painful physical effects from improperly plugging illegal drugs like Molly.

Tissue Damage

Prescribed drugs that are taken rectally include appropriate lubrication and a sterile syringe or applicator. People that plug substances might not take steps for safe and sterile use.

Not using sterile applicators or suitable lubrication can cause extensive tissue damage to rectal membranes and tissues.

Plugging drugs may cause:

• poor blood flow
• persistent diarrhea
• anorectal disorder
• low number of platelets from the bloodstream

Plugging causes additional damage to rectal tissues. The harsh chemical makeup of illegal drugs like MDMA, DMT, or LSD when they are repeatedly ingested can cause internal bleeding. The damage varies depending on the duration and intensity of anal drug intake.

Greater Probability Of Overdose

There is a misconception that it is safer to take medications through plugging. The reasoning behind this belief is that drugs go to the blood and entirely bypass the digestive tract and liver. This isn’t correct.

The body filters out drugs from the digestive system by using the liver. Even if a drug enters the bloodstream first, it will undergo the exact same filtering process within the body through the liver, but have a greater initial bioavailability. Because of this, the “high” that is experienced will be fast and intense.

The biggest downside with rectal drug use is that the high will arrive quickly and intensely, but leaves faster than if taken orally. So, although the substance’s effect will have worn off, it is still being processed by the body.

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A first-time user of drugs through plugging may continue taking drugs and suffer an overdose. The effects of a plugging-related overdose may be deadly. Regularly dosing drugs that work on dopamine and serotonin receptors, like MDMA, can have serious short-term and long-term effects that impact major organ systems and mental wellbeing.

Effects Of MDMA Use And Abuse

Used recreationally as a rave or party drug, MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine) affects the body and mind simultaneously. It gives overall feelings of sociability, love, and well-being, as well as lowered inhibitions, all at the same time. It is also known as “molly” and is a key component in ecstasy pills, which can be administered rectally.

Because it is an illegal substance, the purity of a given dose of MDMA can vary. Many variations of the drug include amphetamines, caffeine, ephedrine, or ketamine to amplify the feeling of high energy. Some also contain PCP (phencyclidine), cocaine, or heroin.

Usually, the effects of pure MDMA taken orally is felt around 45 minutes after taking a pill or through insufflation (snorting). A person may “roll” on the positive feelings of MDMA for up to five hours. Side effects can last for days.

Plugging MDMA makes the effects very intense, very quickly. MDMA impacts people differently depending on the dose of MDMA, the person’s health, and mental wellbeing. The combination of physical and psychological effects makes the quick drug release and risk of overdose when plugging especially troublesome.

Side effects of MDMA include:

• nausea
• dehydration
• reduced appetite
• elevated heart rate/blood pressure
• rapid breathing
• excessive perspiration
• teeth grinding

If a person who is on MDMA is especially stressed, delirium and panic attacks may result. Over the long-term, MDMA abuse can lead to serious depression, learning difficulties, and memory issues.

Long-Term Effects Of MDMA Abuse

Long term abuse of MDMA can create unpleasant long-term effects. This is especially true when the drugs are abused through less conventional means like plugging, where the risk of overdose increases.

Long-term effects of MDMA/Molly abuse may include:

• liver and kidney damage
• mental confusion/clouded thinking
• aggression
• memory problems
• restlessness
• irritability
• severe dehydration
• depression
• severe anxiety/depression
• high blood pressure
• stiff muscles
• fuzzy thinking

These long-term effects can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making it difficult to work, maintain relationships, or enjoy daily activities. The longer someone continues to abuse MDMA, especially through methods like plugging, the more severe these health problems can become.

MDMA Overdose By Plugging

Overdose on MDMA produces serious adverse effects. Rectal drug administration that leads to further drug use only increases the dangers.

The most common overdose symptoms are:

• heart attack
• elevated heart rate
• heatstroke
• dehydration
• sodium deficiency causing cerebral swelling
• kidney failure
• liver damage (hepatitis)
• excessive bleeding
• chest pain
• fever
• shallow breathing
• seizures

Harm reduction measures may be taken at a hospital that includes lowering the body temperature with ice packs, intravenous fluid, salt drips, and oxygen.

Getting Help For MDMA Abuse

Even occasional use of drugs like MDMA can be harmful and interfere with your ability to enjoy life, maintain relationships, and achieve your goals. The good news is that there are many effective treatment options designed to help people overcome drug abuse and build healthier lives.

Treatment options for MDMA abuse include detox programs to safely get the drug out of your system, individual and group counseling to address the reasons behind drug use, inpatient rehabilitation programs that provide 24-hour support, outpatient programs that allow you to live at home while getting treatment, and ongoing support groups. To find treatment programs in your area, you can contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for free information.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff