Ecstasy commonly known as MDMA

Ecstasy is widely known as MDMA which is an acronym that stands for 3, 4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine. Ecstasy is also commonly referred to as E, X or XTC. MDMA's primary effect is more than likely a stimulation of the secretion of large amounts of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.

This generally induces changes in the brain, including enhanced senses of openness, energy, euphoria, empathy and general well being. Some users also experience an enhancement of tactile sensations which make physical contact much more enjoyable. MDMA has been classified into a new category of drug action, which is called either "empathogen" or "entactogen".

In addition to the "desirable" effects of MDMA usage, there are also a host of effects that can be detrimental to the health of whoever is abusing the drug. A very large risk factor for MDMA abuse is Hypertension, thanks to the cardiac load increase which is experienced while under the effects of the drug. Use of MDMA which is constant, excessive or heavy can cause significant damage to the nervous system, much in the same way that alcohol abuse would. Although there are many people who use MDMA excessively, studies have shown that the effects of MDMA are far less addictive than with smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol or taking other drugs. The UK Medical Research Council recently stated that MDMA can be considered to be on the absolutely bottom on the scale of harmful drugs and other vices. However, studies have shown that between 10 and a 100 people have died every year with MDMA in their blood, and though MDMA rarely caused the death on its own, it does appear to play a part in many of those deaths. MDMA has a tendency to cause overheating, if people who are taking the drug do not consume enough water. When taking MDMA, especially when combined with alcohol, it is important to drink enough water to keep from dehydrating.

MDMA is significantly less addictive compared to other drugs, but people who take it frequently can still have difficulty kicking the habit. Thankfully, there are a lot of groups and services out there which would like to help you get help for your addiction to MDMA. Narcotics Anonymous is a great place to start, if you have the willpower to attend the meetings and to do what it takes to kick the habit on your own. If you do not believe that you will be able to attend the NA meetings, you may consider checking yourself into rehab, where the provisions of your detoxing will be a great deal more structured. Drug addiction is a very serious matter, even when it comes to a drug that seems safe, or even enjoyable like MDMA. If you feel that you are a MDMA abuser, then you should turn your life around now and start working to overcome the drugs from your life.