Symptoms and Treatment for Ecstasy Drug Abuse

 

Ecstasy, also referred to as XTC or X, is a hallucinogenic drug that was first developed in 1912, but didn't gain popularity until the 80s and 90s. The drug is often present at clubs, concerts and parties called raves. The drug is available in a pill form, and the effects can last 4 to 6 hours.

The drug is not as addictive as others, such as heroin, but can have several unpleasant effects, especially if someone is not aware that they've been given the drug. Some of the side effects can include nausea, sweating, shivering, and unclear vision. After the drug has worn off, the user may feel depressed, anxious, or paranoid.

Ecstasy can cause many long and short term problems. Studies have also shown that it affects the body’s level of serotonin, an important chemical in the brain that helps it carry out many important functions. Damaged nerves in an Ecstasy user's brain will regenerate, but they're often abnormal and unable to function the way healthy nerves would.

Abusers of Ecstasy may experience problems with their sleeping patterns, they may also begin to show signs of mental illness such as depression. Permanent brain damage may also result in the long term, affecting learning abilities, and other important cognitive functions. They may also suffer from a variety of emotional problems.

An ecstasy addiction is not as serious as other types of drugs, and is easier to treat. A medical doctor may be able to prescribe pharmaceuticals to aid in the process. Individual and group therapy is also available to help users overcome their addiction.

Ecstasy is not only dangerous in its use as a potential date rape drug, but also for its long term ill effects on the body. Although the addiction is less severe than other drugs, it's important to get help before permanent damage sets in. Once the problem is recognized a user should seek help from a therapist or doctor.