There has been a recent resurgence in ecstasy, or MDMA, due to online markets, increased availability of high-strength MDMA, and aggressive marketing tactics that target youth.
Some people consider ecstasy to be one of the “safer” substances on the market, but it’s rarely the pure substance it claims to be. Many ecstasy tablets contain not only MDMA, but also a number of other substances that can be harmful such as ketamine, methamphetamine, and cocaine. This so-called “party drug” is also frequently mixed with other substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines, making it even riskier.
Here in Arizona, a recent youth survey found that 3.3% of 12th graders experimented with ecstasy at least once in 2020. This is concerning, not just due to the risk of ecstasy overdose, but also the potential for lifelong problems with learning and memory. A person who feels that they need ecstasy to have fun is likely attempting to escape difficult emotions or memories, or may be dealing with social anxiety.
Wolf Creek Recovery offers comprehensive care for individuals with a psychological dependence on ecstasy. We can show them that a better life awaits—one filled with meaningful friendships, fun outdoor activities, and healthy coping strategies like meditation and yoga. Let’s learn more about ecstasy, the risk of overdose, and the signs and symptoms to be on alert for.
What Is an Ecstasy Overdose?
An ecstasy overdose occurs when a person takes a dangerously high amount of the substance known as MDMA. This can lead to severe physical and psychological symptoms, some of which can be life-threatening. Understanding the signs, risks, and how to handle an ecstasy overdose can be crucial in saving a life.
Ecstasy is a synthetic substance that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. It increases the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, leading to feelings of euphoria and increased energy. However, ecstasy is often mixed with other substances, including harmful chemicals, which can increase the risk of overdose. People who use ecstasy usually don’t know what they are ingesting or in what dosage, causing them to consume a higher dose of MDMA or other dangerous adulterants.
Risk Factors of Ecstasy Overdose
Anyone who ingests ecstasy can overdose on the substance. However, certain risk factors can make this more or less likely to happen.
The main risk factor of an ecstasy overdose is taking too much. Large or repeated doses can overwhelm the body’s ability to metabolize MDMA, causing toxic levels to build up in the bloodstream. Additionally, the strength of ecstasy pills can vary widely, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
Mixing ecstasy with other substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids is also a risk factor. Dangerous interactions can occur, leading to unpredictable behaviors, worsening dehydration, overheating, or respiratory depression. Some people may even use ecstasy alongside LSD or mushrooms, intensifying hallucinations and other psychological effects.
Additional risk factors include using the substance in hot, crowded venues, not drinking enough fluids, and having an underlying health condition such as high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, or a heart problem. Genetics also play a role, as some people have enzymes that break down MDMA faster, while others metabolize it slower, leading to prolonged effects and a higher risk of overdose.
Warning Signs of a Potential Ecstasy Overdose
Recognizing the potential warning signs of an ecstasy overdose allows you to intervene and prevent serious harm or death. If you notice that you or someone around you is showing concerning signs, it’s important to seek help immediately. Early intervention can prevent the serious and potentially fatal consequences of an ecstasy overdose. The main warning signs to pay attention to are confusion and disorientation, feeling extremely hot to the touch, trouble breathing, and slipping in and out of consciousness.
Ecstasy Overdose Signs and Symptoms
Since ecstasy can contain a number of different chemicals, adulterants, and substances, overdoses don’t always look the same. However, there are a number of signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for:
- Cardiovascular symptoms. A rapid heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, or chest pain are all signs that too much ecstasy has been ingested. These symptoms can lead to severe headaches, dizziness, stroke, or heart attack.
- Neurological symptoms. Uncontrollable shaking or convulsions, severe anxiety or panic attacks, and hallucinations are also concerning symptoms. If they aren’t treated, they can lead to harmful or risky behaviors. Confusion and disorientation are also possible.
- Thermoregulatory symptoms. Overheating is a common issue with ecstasy, as people often use the substance in hot, crowded environments like nightclubs and raves. However, a high body temperature can lead to heatstroke and organ failure. The person may also sweat profusely, causing dehydration and overheating to worsen.
- Muscular symptoms. People who use ecstasy often experience muscle cramping and jaw clenching or teeth grinding. This can lead to muscle stiffness, jaw locking, or rhabdomyolysis, a breakdown of muscle tissue.
- Respiratory symptoms. Difficulty breathing or breathing rapidly or shallowly are causes for concern. Without intervention, this can lead to respiratory failure.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms. Persistent nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or cramping in the abdomen can signal distress or muscle breakdown. These symptoms may also indicate dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
- Psychological symptoms. People who are experiencing an ecstasy overdose may appear agitated, restless, aggressive, confused, and disorientated.
Dangers of Ecstasy Overdose
An ecstasy overdose can lead to a wide range of problems in both the short-term and long-term. The most concerning issue is hyperthermia, which happens when the body rises to dangerous levels often exceeding 104 degrees F. This can lead to heatstroke, organ failure, and a breakdown of muscle tissue. Because people often use ecstasy in crowded and hot environments where they’re dancing and moving around, hyperthermia is a real concern.
Other potential dangers of an ecstasy overdose include heart problems, seizures, respiratory distress, low sodium levels, and kidney failure. An ecstasy overdose can also trigger anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations, causing danger to the individual and those around them. Continuing to use ecstasy can lead to long-term problems as well such as learning and memory impairments, depression, and anxiety.
What to Do If Someone Is Overdosing on Ecstasy
If you suspect that someone is overdosing on ecstasy, it’s important to take immediate action. Call 911 and provide the exact location you’re at, along with any other important information. The emergency operator will ask you questions and tell you to stay on the line until help arrives. If the person is unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position. This helps keep the airways open and prevents them from choking. Do not try to restrain the person if they are agitated or experiencing a seizure.
A few other things you may be able to do, depending on the situation, include moving the person to a cooler environment, offering small sips of water, applying cool compresses, and fanning the person. Once help arrives, try to give first responders as much information as possible, such as what substance was taken, the amount and time of ingestion, and symptoms or changes in the person’s condition. 
Ecstasy Addiction Treatment in Prescott, AZ
Treating an ecstasy use disorder involves a comprehensive approach that addresses physical and psychological aspects. While ecstasy doesn’t cause severe physical withdrawal symptoms, it’s still recommended to detox under medical supervision. This ensures that psychological symptoms like anxiety or depression are managed so that you can focus on healing. A supportive environment also provides safety, hydration, nutrition, and emotional support.
Once the substance is out of your body, you can start an ecstasy addiction treatment program that addresses the psychological components of your substance use. Even if you feel that you use ecstasy purely to “party” or “have a good time,” chances are this still means something. Are you trying to escape negative emotions? Do you have trouble letting loose without the substance? Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you understand your motivations for using ecstasy and help you develop healthier pastimes and ways to cope. Group therapy, medication management, coping strategies, a strong support network, lifestyle changes, and aftercare should also be included in your treatment plan.
When you are ready to make a change in your life, Wolf Creek Recovery is here to lead the way. We teach our clients healthy ways to enjoy themselves so that they don’t need substances to have a good time. Recreation therapy, for instance, offers opportunities to go hiking, play sports, and even go canoeing and paddle boarding on the water. It’s pure, clean fun! When coupled with counseling, therapy, and life skills, it’s easy to build a life you love. Call Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202 to learn more about our treatment services.
FAQs About Ecstasy Overdose
How much ecstasy does it take to overdose?
The amount of ecstasy it takes to overdose depends on several factors, including individual factors, the purity of the substance, and whether it’s taken with other substances. A standard dose of MDMA is usually between 50mg and 150mg. Going above this can cause negative effects to occur, such as anxiety, paranoia, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Overdose is most likely to happen once ecstasy exceeds 250mg. However, keep in mind that since ecstasy is not regulated, the amount of MDMA in a single pill can vary widely.
What are the signs of a potential ecstasy overdose?
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of an ecstasy overdose are overheating, dehydration, confusion and disorientation, paranoia, hallucinations, rapid heart rate and blood pressure, seizures, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness.
Can you reverse an ecstasy overdose?
While there is no specific medication to reverse an ecstasy overdose, there are supportive therapies that can stop or reduce dangerous symptoms and prevent life-threatening complications. For instance, a person who is overheating can remove excess layers of clothes and apply cold compresses, while a person who is severely dehydrated can take small sips of water or Gatorade.
