MDMA
Common Names: Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, XTC, It, MDA, MMC
Psychoactive Effects
Positive Effects
- Euphoria
- Pleasure
- Happiness
Neutral Effects
- Enhanced empathy
- Increased sociability
- Enhanced tactile sensations
- Time distortion
- Enhanced music appreciation
- Altered perception of colors
Negative Effects
- Depression
- Anxiety
Dosage Guidelines
| Route | Threshold | Light | Common | Strong | Heavy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral | 20-30 mg | 30-75 mg | 75-125 mg | 125-200 mg | 200+ mg |
| Insufflated | 15-25 mg | 25-50 mg | 50-100 mg | 100-150 mg | 150+ mg |
Note: MDMA is currently being studied for therapeutic use in PTSD treatment. The 3-month rule (waiting 3 months between uses) is recommended to minimize neurotoxicity.
Duration
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Onset | 30-60 minutes |
| Peak | 2-4 hours |
| Total | 4-6 hours |
| After effects | 6-24 hours |
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action: MDMA acts as a releasing agent and reuptake inhibitor of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. It primarily increases extracellular serotonin levels by reversing the serotonin transporter (SERT).
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes. Major metabolites include 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymethamphetamine (HMMA), and 3,4-dihydroxymethamphetamine (HHMA).
Half-life: Approximately 7-9 hours, with effects typically lasting 4-6 hours.
Bioavailability: ~80% when taken orally, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours.
Risks and Harm Reduction
⚠️ Important: Always practice harm reduction. Start with low doses, test your substances, and ensure a safe set and setting. Never use alone.
Legal Status
Disclaimer: Legal status varies by jurisdiction and may change. This information is for educational purposes only.
References
- • de la Torre, R., et al. (2004). Human pharmacology of MDMA: pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and disposition. Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 26(2), 137-144.
- • Mithoefer, M. C., et al. (2018). 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder in military veterans, firefighters, and police officers. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(6), 486-497.
- • Green, A. R., et al. (2003). The pharmacology and clinical pharmacology of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, "ecstasy"). Pharmacological Reviews, 55(3), 463-508.
- • Parrott, A. C. (2013). Human psychobiology of MDMA or 'Ecstasy': an overview of 25 years of empirical research. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, 28(4), 289-307.
- • Information compiled from PsychonautWiki