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How Long Does Molly Last?
Say you’re at a party, the music coursing in your bones, and someone offers you a little pill, assuring you that you’ll have no regrets. Your pause is brief as you take it, in a ball of fire, and connected to those around you. The drug Molly, or MDMA, which gained popularity in clubs and the festival scene, is known as a social enhancer.
Although the high might feel incredible, what happens after the high? How long does Molly last, and more saliently, what are the potential risks?
Let’s examine what Molly does, how long it stays in your system, what to do if it starts taking control of your life, and how Inspire Recovery can help you recover.
What Is Molly and Its Effects?
Popularly known as a street name for MDMA, Molly is a drug that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. Effects usually occur 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. These effects can potentially be enhanced energy, emotional warmth, and distorted sensory and time perception, which generally peak and last for 3 hours. However, lingering effects can persist for several hours, with some users reporting feelings that last up to 7 hours post-ingestion.
When Does Recreational Use Become a Problem?
While occasional consumption of Molly may not be initially seen as dangerous due to its limited or no adverse effects, regular use can lead to addiction. Users might find themselves needing to take doses of the substance to achieve the desired effect over time. Using MDMA may pose a risk of experiencing negative effects, like anxiety and cognitive problems. Moreover is worth mentioning that due to the nature of Molly. The pills or powders marketed as Molly could potentially contain additives that raise the level of danger involved.
What Happens to Your Body While Molly Is in Your System?
MDMA affects neurotransmitters in the brain leading to feelings of euphoria and increased sensory perception.
Short-Term Effects (During the High – 3 to 6 Hours)
- Increased energy and sociability
- Heightened emotional connection with others
- Mydriasis, or swollen pupils and high body temperature
- Fast heart rate and high blood pressure
- Jaw clenching and muscle tension
- Dehydration and excessive sweating
After the High (6 to 24 Hours Later)
- Fatigue and exhaustion as the body crashes
- Irritability and mood swings
- Difficulty sleeping and restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Depression due to decreased serotonin levels
Long-Term Effects (Days to Weeks After Use)
- Memory issues and trouble concentrating
- Increased anxiety or paranoia
- Serotonin depletion may lead to depression as a potential outcome.
- Repeated use causes damage to brain chemistry.
- The use of this substance leads to higher chances of developing dependence.
What are the Signs and When to Seek Help
While the fact remains that not everyone who uses Molly will develop a problem, on some occasions, what begins as occasional can spiral into dependence. When Molly affects levels – a hormone that controls sleep and mood among bodily functions – it induces sensations of overwhelming joy and comfort in individuals using it. However once the effects of the substance subside serotonin levels drop significantly resulting in feelings of exhaustion, sorrow or unease, among users.
The following is a list of signs of how Molly’s use can cause problems:
- Increased tolerance – You need more of the drug to feel the same effects.
- Using despite negative consequences – You continue taking Molly even if it’s hurting your work, relationships, or mental health.
- Withdrawal symptoms – Feeling extremely low, anxious, or irritable when not using.
- Craving the drug – You think about using Molly often and prioritize it over other activities.
- Financial or legal troubles – Spending excessive money on Molly or taking risks to get it.
- Mixing substances – There’s a high chance of increased risks when Molly is used along with alcohol and other drugs.
What Treatment Works Best?
The most common treatment practice for MDMA addiction often involves combining therapies specifically designed for the person’s needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients recognise and change maladaptive thought patterns related to drug use. Group therapy provides a supportive setting for people to exchange experiences and learn coping strategies. A treatment plan should also include strategies to manage co-occurring mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, because they support complete recovery.
Recover at Inspire Recovery
We at Inspire Recovery know how substance abuse can be more challenging for LGBTQ individuals. Inspired by authentic and first-hand experiences of some of our staff, who faced the same challenges in the past, we can design treatments specifically personalized to our clients’ needs.
Our LGBTQ-inclusive drug and substance abuse detox and residential rehab center serves as a safe and affirming environment for individuals to begin their recovery. A discrimination-free environment, committed to equality and pride within our community. Our programs are designed to address not only substance use, but also the underlying issues that in one way or another influence recovery.
Reflect and Reach Out
Do you or someone you know experience challenges related to Molly use? Keep in mind that recognising the problem is the first step toward recovery. What steps can you take today to move toward a healthier future?
Inherently, LGBTQ people avoid seeking treatment because they feel their substance use does not meet the criteria of being severe enough. But if you are wondering whether you have a problem, then it may be time to seek help. Getting help early on makes recovery easier and helps prevent more harm.
If you’re ready to take that step, Inspire Recovery is here to help. Contact us at 561-899-6088 to explore our programs; these programs can support your recovery goal.
