MDMA Detox

At Excel, we understand how hard MDMA addiction can be. We also know that everyone’s story is different, and we provide personalized, solution-focused recovery programs that are tailored to the individual.

Although it is known as a ‘party drug’, MDMA has a darker side. Also commonly known as ecstasy or ‘molly’ in its crystal form, MDMA can be addictive, and the effect on user’s lives can be devastating.

MDMA addiction is linked to a wide range of physical and psychological complications. Stopping the use of MDMA alone can be difficult, and the withdrawal symptoms can be difficult to deal with. However, with proper support, it is possible to recover.

At Excel, we understand how hard MDMA addiction can be. We also know that everyone’s story is different, and we provide personalized, solution-focused recovery programs that are tailored to the individual.

Struggling with MDMA? Call Excel Treatment Center at (877) 331-4114 to speak with one of our addiction counselors and start your recovery journey today.

What is MDMA?

MDMA comes as small crystals or a powder. It can be pressed into colorful pills that often have a design printed on them. It is usually swallowed or snorted, although there have been reports of some users injecting it.

Effects start to come on within half an hour and peak within two. MDMA causes a massive release of dopamine and serotonin; our natural feel-good chemicals. They are responsible for mood regulation, appetite and energy levels, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Users typically experience:

  • Euphoria
  • Increased music appreciation
  • Sweating
  • Teeth grinding
  • Talkativeness
  • Feeling more ‘open’

However, these effects are short-lived. When the effects wear off after around six hours, users experience a ‘crash’. This is when the feel-good chemicals of the brain are depleted. This leads to users feeling lethargic and low.

While a lot of people can stop, many users chase the high and take repeated doses of MDMA. The brain builds up a tolerance to the chemical, which results in more being needed for the same effect. This can lead to greater ‘crashes’ which can lead to addiction developing.

MDMA Addiction

MDMA addiction is characterized by the repeated use of it, despite negative consequences. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that repeated MDMA use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

As previously mentioned, regular use builds up tolerance and puts users at an increased risk of addiction and related health complications. Some people may be more prone to addiction, for reasons that they cannot control. Because many people are not aware of how addictive MDMA can be, they do not understand that they are experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they stop.

Many of our clients feel a great deal of shame about their addiction. Some do not understand why they repeatedly take something that they thought was non-addictive. Others know what they are doing is harmful, but don’t understand why they can’t stop.

At Excel, we have a judgment-free approach to addiction. We appreciate that addiction is a health condition, and it doesn’t constitute a moral failing. People who suffer from addiction are not bad; they simply need help. We pride ourselves on being able to deliver that.

MDMA Withdrawal

Withdrawal from MDMA is a combination of both physical and mental effects. These effects can be overwhelming and can lead users to compulsively take more of the drug to avoid them. However, with the right medical support, it is possible to manage these symptoms and make the entire process as easy as possible.

Symptoms of MDMA Withdrawal

Physical Symptoms

As the effects of MDMA start to wear off, users will typically feel shaky. MDMA suppresses appetite, and it is common for users to neglect their diet whilst they are under the influence. This lack of appetite can persist throughout the detox period.

MDMA also causes users to feel very energetic. Over time, the body becomes used to MDMA being present, and it is common for users to feel lethargic or worn out during the withdrawal period. Simple, everyday tasks can seem overwhelming. A residential detox center can help to support clients through this difficult process and ensure that all their needs are met so they can focus on recovery.

Mental Health Symptoms

MDMA is psychoactive and has a huge effect on the mood of users. Prolonged use of MDMA causes the brain’s neurotransmitters to become imbalanced. This can persist for weeks, so the detox must be done in a safe environment.

Some other symptoms of MDMA withdrawal are:

  • Insomnia
  • Agitation
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Intense cravings to use

There is power in sharing our experiences with others, and our detox staff are highly trained in both listening and giving helpful advice. One of the other benefits of residential detox is that clients are around people who are on the same journey

Length of Withdrawal Symptoms

The length of the withdrawal symptoms is dependent on how long you were using MDMA and how often you were taking it. MDMA leaves the system after three days; however, the withdrawal symptoms can last for around two weeks.

Once our medical team has some information about your MDMA use, they can provide a rough timeline for the withdrawal phase. Some users have found that effects such as depression can last for months, although they are not as intense as in the first two weeks. This knowledge can lead to a sense of hopelessness, and it’s important to remember that this is not forever. The brain can recover from MDMA addiction, but it does require time.

Medication for Withdrawal

Unlike opiates or tranquilizers, there is no substitute drug to wean users off MDMA. Our detox clients may be given medication if necessary, to help with any anxiety and sleep problems.

We also recommend that people continue with taking any other prescribed medication during detox, as long as they are taking it as recommended by their doctor or physician. We will ask about any prescribed medications during the initial consultation, so we can avoid any issues with drugs we may prescribe.

MDMA Withdrawal and Mental Health

Excel Treatment Center and our associated detox clinics specialize in treating both mental health and drug addiction. During the initial assessment, you will have the opportunity to discuss any pre-existing mental health conditions you may be dealing with. We also have experts on hand to help diagnose any problems that may have gone unnoticed.

It’s important to remember that some MDMA withdrawal symptoms can mimic the symptoms of mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Through regular check-ins with our team, we will be able to assess whether a mental health problem has surfaced during the detox phase. We are also able to arrange for medication to be prescribed to help with this.

MDMA Withdrawal and Physical Health

Most long-and-short-term effects of MDMA withdrawal relate to mental rather than physical health. The most common physical issues of MDMA addiction and withdrawal are suppressed appetite and short-term dehydration. If it is necessary, our doctors may prescribe multivitamin supplements to combat the malnutrition that can arise from MDMA addiction.

Although not strictly a withdrawal symptom, many MDMA users experience dental problems from constantly grinding their teeth. When under the influence, they may not notice these symptoms; however, they may become more apparent when the person is newly sober. It is advisable that anyone in early recovery from MDMA addiction also sees a dentist.

Addiction Recovery

The wellness of our clients is our main priority. We recommend our clients engage in one of our bespoke recovery programs upon finishing their detox. Detox is just the first stepping-stone in recovery – it treats the physical and mental symptoms – however, for many people, this is not enough.

To have the best possible chance of recovery, the underlying causes of the addiction must be managed too. A return to ‘everyday’ life with no support is inadvisable, as people are exposed to old triggers without any coping strategies.

Excel provides a range of treatment options for those who want to continue their recovery journey after they leave detox. It is in these programs that we help our clients understand their addiction and give them practical tools and techniques to use as they continue their recovery journey.

If you or someone you love is struggling with MDMA addiction, please contact us today.

Detoxification Treatment

Although we do not provide detoxification services at our facilities, Excel Treatment Center is happy to refer clients to professional, licensed, and insurance friendly detoxification facilities to undergo treatment.

Contact us today at 973-547-1918 to enquire about a referral.

Call (877) 331-4114 and talk to an expert to learn more about medically assisted detox, one-on-one therapy, family support, and relapse prevention programs.

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