Ecstasy Detox & Withdrawal Treatment

What is Ecstasy Addiction?

Ecstasy

Ecstasy has grown in popularity as a club drug, sex drug and social drug. Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, affects individuals by directly changing chemistry in the brain. Within a short period of time after ingestion, an individual begins to feel the euphoric effects of ecstasy. Mental stimulation, emotional warmth, empathy toward others and decreased sense of anxiety are among ecstasy’s “positive” effects. Its “negative” effects are decreased inhibitions, sweating, chills, nausea and vomiting.

Ecstasy has a tremendously negative rebound effect after its high has passed. Many addicts will either spend a few days sleeping or looking for their next fix. Chronic ecstasy use changes brain chemistry and produces holes in the brain, creating permanent damage for the user. Many friends, family and loved ones state that their ecstasy abusing loved one’s personality has changed and they are correct.

Ecstasy Withdrawal Symptoms

MDMA is a stimulant and a hallucinogenic (psychoactive) drug usually taken in pill or capsule form. The drug interferes with the neurotransmitter serotonin, a naturally occurring brain chemical that regulates mood, aggression, sexual desire, sleep and sensitivity to pain. Physical withdrawal from ecstasy is short, but the drug’s psychological impact may cause more havoc and requires a longer stay in inpatient treatment.  

The psychological symptoms of ecstasy abuse will last much longer than physical withdrawal symptoms. Once the addict is stabilized in an inpatient medical detox, he or she should continue with residential treatment to decrease chances of relapse.

Ecstasy Detox

In an inpatient detox, the addict will be stabilized off of ecstasy while being monitored for withdrawal symptoms. During this period of time, the addict will be assessed for mental health issues that are related to ecstasy withdrawal. After stabilization, the addict should transfer to residential rehab to continue with treatment.

Ecstasy Addiction Treatment

In the inpatient drug rehab level of care, the addict will be able to address underlying issues related to his or her drug addiction. A residential program will also give the addict time to decrease relapse risk, learn to manage chronic craving issues, improve task-oriented behaviors and establish a sleep routine to promote a healthy lifestyle. The addict will also attend individual, couples and/or family counseling to help decrease risk of relapse upon discharge.