How Long Does a Heroin High Last?

The effects of heroin can be felt almost immediately after use, depending on the method of ingestion. Snorting or smoking heroin generally produces a high that can last for approximately 15 to 30 minutes, while injecting it can produce a more potent high that may last for several hours. However, the drug itself can remain in the system for much longer, affecting both physical and cognitive functions.

How Long Does Heroin Stay in Your System?

The duration heroin stays in one's system can vary based on several factors, such as metabolism, frequency of use, and the method of consumption. Generally, heroin can be detected in urine for up to 7 days, in blood for up to 6 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days.

Is Heroin a Stimulant?

Contrary to some misconceptions, heroin is not a stimulant. It is a depressant, which means it slows down the central nervous system, leading to slowed breathing, heart rate, and cognitive function.

Heroin is indeed an opiate, derived from the naturally occurring morphine found in the opium poppy. Opiates are known for their pain-relieving properties but are also highly addictive.

Is Heroin a Narcotic?

In both legal and medical terms, heroin is considered a narcotic. Narcotics are drugs that relieve pain, induce sleep, and can lead to addiction.

What is Gas Station Heroin?

Gas Station Heroin isn't actually heroin; it's a colloquial term used to describe synthetic opioids that are sometimes sold over the counter at convenience stores or gas stations. These substances can mimic the effects of heroin and can be just as dangerous, leading to addiction or overdose.

What is Black Tar Heroin?

Black Tar Heroin is a specific type of heroin that appears as a dark, sticky substance resembling roofing tar or hard coal. Predominantly produced in Mexico, this form of heroin is most commonly found in the western United States. While less pure than other forms, it is equally dangerous and addictive.

What are Common Street Names for Heroin?

Some of the common street names for heroin include 'China White,' 'H,' 'Junk,' 'Skag,' and 'Smack.' These names are often used to discreetly discuss the drug and can vary by region. Additionally, combinations of heroin and other controlled substances carry their own street names. 'Dynamite' is slang for heroin and cocaine, while 'chocolate bars' denote heroin and Xanax (Alprazolam). Other combos include 'screwball' (heroin and meth,) and 'El Diablo' (heroin, cocaine, and marijuana). Needless to say, hearing a loved one or potential addict use these terms could indicate an even bigger concern.

How is Heroin Consumed?

Snorting: In this method, powdered heroin is inhaled through the nose. This can lead to respiratory issues and damage to the mucous membrane. Smoking: Also known as 'chasing the dragon,' this involves inhaling the vapors produced when heroin is heated. This method poses a risk of lung issues including bronchitis and emphysema. Injecting: This is the most dangerous method where heroin is injected directly into the bloodstream. This can lead to immediate overdose and increases the risk of contracting diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C.

Heroin, chemically known as diacetylmorphine, is an illegal drug synthesized from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pods of certain varieties of poppy plants. It was initially created to serve as a less addictive alternative to morphine but quickly proved to be even more addictive and dangerous. In the United States, heroin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, which is meant to include drugs with a high potential for abuse and has no accepted medical use.

What can cause Schizophrenia later in life?

The cause of late-onset schizophrenia is still not fully understood, according to the passage. Scientists believe that genetics and external factors may play a role. The condition could also be dormant in some individuals for decades before being 'triggered' by a specific event, such as trauma.

What are three warning signs of schizophrenia?

Hallucinations: Experiencing sensations involving any of the five senses that aren't real, such as seeing shapes or hearing voices. Delusions: Holding beliefs that are not based in reality, like thinking someone is out to get you or that your TV is speaking directly to you. Movement Disorders: Exhibiting unusual bodily movements, such as jerky hand movements, pacing, or catatonia (not moving for an extended period or doing repeated, purposeless movements).

What is the typical age of onset for Schizophrenia?

The typical age of onset for schizophrenia is at an early age, often when individuals are teenagers or young adults. The passage states that most people first show signs of the disorder at an early age, although it is possible to develop it later in life.

Can you develop schizophrenia later in life?

Yes, you can develop schizophrenia later in life, a condition known as late-onset schizophrenia. While most people show signs of schizophrenia at a younger age, some individuals don't develop symptoms until they're in their 40s, 50s, or even later. Late-onset schizophrenia makes up 15-20% of all schizophrenia cases and tends to present less intense positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

What does EtOH stand for?

EtOH is the chemical label or acronym for ethyl alcohol (ethanol). Usually, this term is found in academic or medical literature. However, it can also be used as a slang term to describe alcoholic beverages.

EtOH is the abbreviation for ethyl alcohol. This is the same alcohol that's found in cleaning products, antiseptics, and alcoholic beverages. EtOH abuse, then, would be the same as alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is considered anything more than light drinking (more than seven drinks per week for women and more than 14 for men).

How does alcohol abuse differ from alcoholism?

Alcohol abuse can be considered a stepping stone to a diagnosable alcohol use disorder or alcoholism. In other words, any excessive alcohol use can be alcohol abuse. However, alcoholism refers to true alcohol addiction or dependency.

What does a drinker's nose look like?

A drinker's nose is characterized by red, bumpy, or a swollen appearance usually directly on the nose or around the cheeks. In some cases, people can even seem to have a purple nose from alcohol use. This is known as rhinophyma in the medical field.

Why do alcoholics have red noses?

The stereotype that alcoholics have red noses should be taken with a grain of salt. While some research argues that getting a drinker's nose might come directly from frequent and chronic drinking habits, other studies show that alcohol does not have much of an effect on the condition of rhinophyma. However, it is true that drinking alcohol can make the blood vessels in the body expand as well as constrict, which can lead to changes in physical appearance such as reddening skin.

What causes red nose from drinking?

Having a flushed appearance after drinking is normal and can go as far as to create that tell-tale drinker's nose. This is because of how the blood vessels respond to alcohol once it enters the bloodstream. Blood vessels can either expand or constrict depending on how much alcohol one consumes; therefore leading to a red nose or face.

Does alcohol dilate pupils?

Our eyes are meant to naturally switch between dilating to let in more light and constricting to filter out light in order to help us see in different environments. However, alcohol can slow down the ability for your eyes to dilate or constrict. As a result, you might experience blurry vision or blind spots.

Can drinking wine cause dry eyes?

Dry eyes are a common symptom from any type of alcoholic beverage, including wine. Not only can alcohol cause you to be dehydrated, which strains your eyes, but alcohol can also slow down your eyes' natural reflexes.

Does alcohol make your eyes red?

Alcoholic eyes often look red and irritated. One of the reasons this occurs is because alcohol use can make the blood vessels in your eyes swell or even burst.

How does alcohol affect the eyes?

When consumed in large amounts over an extended period of time, alcohol can change the health of your eyes by weakening the muscles and deteriorating parts of your brain that control sight.

What does alcohol do to your eyes?

Alcohol can have many different negative effects on your eyes. Alcohol use is connected with various vision problems, including blurry sight, dry eyes, and even blindness. These side effects can be both temporary and long term, and they range in severity.

Are laced drugs dangerous?

Laced drugs can be very dangerous, especially when they're laced with a potent opioid like fentanyl. People can unknowingly consume more drugs than their system is used to, which can cause overdose and even death.

Why do people lace drugs?

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are much cheaper to produce than other drugs like oxycodone or heroin. Drug dealers lace more expensive drugs with fentanyl to sell a less expensive product for more money. Others may intentionally lace their drugs to get a more intense or faster high.

What does laced mean?

When a drug or drink is laced, it means that it's mixed with another substance. Typically, the person taking the drug does not know that the substance has been laced, but they may in some cases.

Can you drink on chemo?

Drinking alcohol while undergoing chemotherapy can present even further dangers, including an increased risk of the cancer returning or the treatment failing. If you have a cancer diagnosis or you are concerned about developing cancer, it is particularly important to find treatment for alcohol addiction. At substance abuse treatment centers, your recovery will encompass physical, spiritual, and emotional healing to make sure that neither cancer nor addiction puts your life at risk.

How does alcohol cause cancer?

Any substance that contains harmful chemicals can lead to negative health effects, especially if you consume that substance frequently. Alcohol is no different—drinking every week or every day introduces dangerous, carcinogenic substances to your body which can then increase your chances of getting cancer.

Does wine cause cancer?

Many people are surprised to learn that wine is also a carcinogen. In fact, one study conducted out of the U.K. compares the health risks of drinking wine to those of smoking cigarettes in terms of cancer risk. This study found that drinking a bottle of wine on a weekly basis had the same increased cancer risk as smoking five to 10 cigarettes each week.

Is alcohol a carcinogen?

According to the American Cancer Society, a carcinogen is something, usually a substance or an exposure, that could increase the chances of developing cancer. Frequent alcohol use has been linked to the development of several different types of cancer, which makes alcohol a carcinogen.

What are hollowed out pens used for?

Hollowed out pens are a type of drug paraphernalia. They are usually used to snort powdered drugs, such as cocaine or heroin.

What should I do if I find drug paraphernalia?

Finding drug paraphernalia can be alarming and determining how to react in these situations is largely subjective. If you find drug paraphernalia in your home, you have every right to feel concerned. Consider establishing a plan for approaching the people in your home suspected of using drugs. If necessary, call a professional counselor, interventionist, or other family members to support you in confronting the issue. If you see paraphernalia in your neighborhood or other public spaces, call a non-emergency police line to describe the situation.

Is possession of paraphernalia a felony?

In Florida, possession or use of drug paraphernalia alone is not a felony. Rather, it is a first-degree misdemeanor that is punishable by fines, jail time, and probation. If drugs are found with the drug paraphernalia, this could result in harsher penalties depending on the amount and type of drug.

What is paraphernalia?

Paraphernalia refers to the various equipment needed to support an activity. In terms of drug paraphernalia, this would include any items used for the use, production, or distribution of drugs. Examples include items such as scales, needles, rolled-up bills, mirrors, razor blades, pipes, lighters, and spoons to name a few.

Where can I dispose of prescription drugs?

Getting rid of unused prescription drugs is a great way to keep yourself and your family safe. To dispose of prescription drugs, you can attend a National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event, or you can simply visit the Drug Enforcement Administration's website. All you have to do is plug in your location, and they'll provide you with a place to safely dispose of your unwanted prescription medications!

Is prescription drug abuse a problem in America?

In a word: yes. Whether it's stimulants, opioids, or sedatives, prescription drug abuse has become a big problem in America. While anyone can develop a prescription drug addiction, adolescents and older adults are both at higher risk. For younger individuals, they may not realize the dangers of drug abuse, and they could have access to unused prescription medications at home. And for older adults, the risk comes from access to many prescription medications due to health conditions, and in some cases a prescription drug addiction may begin with something as simple as a consistent dosing mistake.

Why is prescription drug abuse so dangerous?

Prescription drug abuse is often thought to be safe, but that's far from the truth. In reality, there are many dangers of prescription drug abuse. Some of the biggest ones are: Overdose: As physical tolerance increases, it becomes easier and easier to justify taking more pills. The higher your tolerance, the greater risk that you'll take too many and experience an overdose, which can be fatal. New Drugs: While most people insist that they will 'only' abuse prescription medications, this is rarely true. It can be hard to find prescription drugs in the long term, so many people transition to readily available substitutes, like heroin and fentanyl. Withdrawals: When your tolerance gets high enough, going any length of time without drugs can make you seriously ill. These are called withdrawals, and the symptoms range from horribly uncomfortable to deadly. For most people, withdrawals are what keep them abusing drugs long after the 'fun' of getting high has gone away.

What prescription drugs are most commonly abused?

The most commonly abused prescription drugs varies from place to place. However, generally speaking, the top 10 most abused prescription drugs are: OxyContin, Xanax, Vicodin, Suboxone, Adderall, Valium, Percocet, Ambien, Fentanyl, Klonopin

What is a pharm party?

A pharm party (or in drug slang terms, a pill party or skittles party) is a party where people, usually teenagers, come together to mix their prescription drugs in a bowl and take them at random to get high. While this idea was popularized in the media, no strong evidence has indicated that pharm parties actually happen. However, prescription drug abuse is a real concern, particularly among young adults.

Can you overdose on GHB?

Yes. Overdosing on GHB is a common side effect because of the potency of the chemical and unpredictability between batches. Symptoms of Liquid G overdose include confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and comatose unconsciousness. Severe overdose results in respiratory distress.

How long does GHB stay in your system?

GHB has a half-life of about 45 minutes, meaning it leaves the system very quickly. The drug is detectable in blood for approximately four hours and in urine for about 12 hours.

GHB is often made illegally in homemade labs from the chemicals found in cleaning supplies. These include either GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) or BDO (1,4 butanediol) along with sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. Dosages are nearly impossible to standardize, and effects will not be known until ingested.

Is MDMA Addictive?- The Blackberry Center Behavioral Hospital

Is MDMA Addictive? Facts You Absolutely Need to Know

A woman experiencing a psychedelic experience on ecstasy, begging the question, "Is MDMA addictive?"

26 Oct, 2023

0 views

Content

Picture someone you care about at a music festival. The atmosphere is electric, the crowd pulsating to the beat. They’re offered a substance known commonly as MDMA, Molly, or Ecstasy.

As someone who cares about their well-being, you can’t help but wonder: “Could this be the start of an addiction?” If this question has crossed your mind, you’re far from alone. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the complex world of MDMA.

We’ll explore its history, its various forms, and its psychological and physiological effects. Our aim is to provide a thoroughly researched answer to the unsettling question: “Is MDMA addictive?”

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of Ecstasy, its potential addictive properties, and the options available for treatment and rehabilitation.

What is MDMA?

MDMA is packaged to look enticing and encourage an expectation of ecstasy.

MDMA, or 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic compound that has both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. Although it was first synthesized in 1912 by the German pharmaceutical company Merck, the compound initially found little practical use. It wasn’t until the 1970s that it gained notoriety as a substance with psychotherapeutic potential.

According to Michael Pollan’s book, “How to Change Your Mind,” Alexander Shulgin wasn’t just synthesizing MDMA for the sake of scientific curiosity. He collaborated with therapists who administered the compound, often referred to as “Ecstasy” in this context, to patients in controlled therapeutic settings.

These sessions were particularly promising for individuals suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, and treatment-resistant depression. For example, one groundbreaking study showed that 68% of PTSD patients who underwent MDMA-assisted psychotherapy reported significant reductions in symptoms, compared to only 25% in the placebo group.

These therapeutic sessions often led to profound emotional insights and a newfound sense of connection with others, offering a transformative experience that traditional therapy couldn’t always provide. However, the drug’s growing popularity in nightclubs and among recreational users led to increasing safety concerns. Alarm bells started ringing about its potential for abuse and adverse effects, which eventually led to its criminalization in many countries. This shift cast MDMA into a realm of both medical promise and social controversy.

Today, the drug is undergoing a bit of a renaissance, with renewed scientific interest in its potential therapeutic applications.

Forms of MDMA

The nomenclature surrounding MDMA can be a bit confusing for the uninitiated. While the compound itself remains consistent, the form it takes can vary.

“Molly” is the colloquial term for the chemicals in its pure powder or crystalline form. “Ecstasy,” on the other hand, usually refers to the pressed pill form of the drug, which can contain not just ecstasy but also a medley of other substances—from caffeine to more dangerous adulterants like amphetamines or opioids.

How Long Does MDMA Last?

Once ingested, the effects of MDMA manifest within 30 to 45 minutes, peaking around 60 to 90 minutes. The overall experience can last between 3 to 6 hours. However, this duration can be influenced by several factors, such as the dosage taken, the user’s body chemistry, and the presence of other substances in the system.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

The body metabolizes MDMA relatively quickly, but traces of the substance can linger. Standard urine tests can typically detect Ecstasy for up to 3 to 4 days after usage. However, this window can vary depending on individual metabolic rates, overall health, and frequency of use.

Microdosing MDMA

In recent years, the concept of microdosing MDMA has gained traction, especially among professionals in high-stress industries and those advocating for alternative mental health treatments. The idea is to ingest a fraction of what’s considered a recreational dose, usually around 10 to 20 milligrams. The goal is not to achieve the euphoric high associated with larger doses, but rather to unlock emotional availability and heightened creativity.

While microdosing may sound appealing, it’s crucial to note that the long-term effects are not yet fully understood. Some research suggests that even at low doses, Ecstasy could potentially affect serotonin levels in the brain, leading to mood fluctuations and other unknown long-term impacts.

Is MDMA Addictive?

Because of the euphoric feelings while on MDMA, users can become psychologically addicted.

One of the most pressing questions surrounding MDMA is its potential for addiction. While some argue that the drug’s effects—heightened sensations, emotional openness, and a sense of euphoria—make it ripe for abuse, the scientific community offers a more nuanced perspective.

Exploration of Addictive Properties

MDMA primarily affects neurotransmitters in the brain like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are integral to mood, emotion, and reward pathways, which is why the drug can produce feelings of happiness and closeness. However, this also raises questions about its potential for addiction.

It’s essential to differentiate between physical and psychological addiction. Unlike substances like opioids or alcohol, Ecstasy has a lower potential for physical dependency. However, the emotional highs it provides can lead to a form of psychological dependency, where users may find themselves taking the drug to escape emotional lows or social anxieties.

Scientific Studies and Statistics

Research on MDMA’s addictive potential is still in its infancy but has been increasing in recent years. Studies have shown that while the drug doesn’t produce withdrawal symptoms commonly associated with substances like alcohol or opioids, it can lead to cravings and habitual use, especially among frequent users.

Data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse indicates that about 13% of young adults in the United States have tried Ecstasy at least once, with 2% reporting usage in the past month. While these statistics don’t directly point to widespread addiction, they do underline the drug’s prevalence and the importance of further research into its addictive properties.

Is MDMA the Same as Ecstasy?

Powdered MDMA is often referred to as “Molly,” while pills are referred to as “Ecstasy.”

This is a question that often comes up in discussions about MDMA, and the answer is both yes and no. While the terms are frequently used interchangeably, there are distinctions that are important to understand.

Brief Discussion on Commonalities and Differences

At its core, both Molly and Ecstasy are rooted in MDMA. However, while Molly is often marketed as the “pure” form of MDMA in a crystalline or powdered form, Ecstasy usually refers to the pill version that can contain a range of other substances. These additives can include anything from caffeine and other stimulants to more harmful substances like amphetamines or even opioids.

The point here is that while both forms are derived from MDMA, Ecstasy’s additional components can drastically alter the drug’s effects and risks. This is why some users prefer Molly, believing it to be purer and therefore safer. However, it’s worth noting that without proper testing, it’s impossible to be sure of the purity of any form of MDMA.

The Science Behind MDMA

A lab test showing a positive result for MDMA

How long MDMA stays in your system depends on metabolism and frequency of use, among other variables.

To fully grasp the multifaceted effects of MDMA, it’s essential to explore the underlying science that governs how this drug interacts with the human brain and body.

How MDMA Affects the Brain

MDMA operates by influencing the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, primarily targeting serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a pivotal role in regulating mood, energy, and social behavior. Ecstasy stimulates the release of these neurotransmitters and also inhibits their reuptake. This dual action leads to an accumulation of these chemicals in the brain’s synapses, resulting in heightened emotional and sensory experiences.

But it’s not all euphoria and bonding; this surge in neurotransmitters is often followed by a depletion, which can lead to what users commonly refer to as “comedowns,” characterized by feelings of depression, irritability, and fatigue.

Long-Term and Short-Term Effects

Short-Term Effects

Euphoria: One of the most immediate effects is a profound sense of happiness or euphoria, which is largely due to the spike in serotonin levels.
Increased Energy: The increase in dopamine and norepinephrine contributes to heightened energy and alertness, often making users feel invigorated.
Enhanced Sensory Perception: Users often report intensified perceptions of color, sound, and touch, making music and tactile sensations more engaging.
Emotional Closeness: The serotonin surge can also result in increased empathy and feelings of emotional closeness with others, often leading to deep conversations or emotional sharing.

Long-Term Effects

Potential for Memory Loss: Some studies suggest that prolonged use of MDMA can impact cognitive functions, including memory.
Disruption in Emotional Regulation: Long-term use can lead to imbalances in neurotransmitter levels, affecting mood and emotional stability.
Sleep Disturbances: Regular use has been linked to disruptions in sleep patterns, which can have a cascading effect on overall health.
Mood Swings: The cyclical nature of MDMA’s high and subsequent low can contribute to mood swings and may exacerbate underlying mental health conditions.

Understanding both the immediate and long-term effects is crucial for anyone considering the use of Ecstasy, whether recreationally or in a therapeutic context.

Treatment and Rehabilitation

Blackberry Center Entrance

For those grappling with a dependence on MDMA, it’s important to recognize that professional help is both available and effective.

Options for Those Who Are Addicted

Detoxification: The first step in most treatment programs is detox, where the individual stops using the substance under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms, if any.
Inpatient and Outpatient Programs: Depending on the severity of the addiction, individuals may choose between inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. Both focus on therapy and skill-building to prevent relapse but differ in intensity and setting. The Blackberry Center is an outpatient-only facility.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of psychotherapy helps individuals understand the triggers and thought patterns that lead to drug use.
Pharmacotherapy: While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating Ecstasy addiction, medications can be used to manage symptoms and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Importance of Professional Help

The complexities of addiction often require a multifaceted approach for effective treatment. Professional guidance not only aids in the detoxification process but also provides the emotional and psychological support necessary for long-term recovery.

This comprehensive guide has explored various facets of Ecstasy, aiming to answer the critical question: “Is MDMA Addictive?” While the drug has a complex profile with both therapeutic potentials and risks, understanding its effects on the brain, its various forms, and the available treatment options can equip individuals to make informed decisions.

“Is MDMA Addictive?” – Next Steps

Based on current scientific understanding, MDMA poses a lower risk for physical addiction compared to substances like opioids or alcohol. However, its psychological effects can lead to habitual use, making it essential for users to approach it with caution.

If you or a loved one are struggling with dependence on Ecstasy or any other substance, professional help is available and effective.

How the Blackberry Center Can Help

At The Blackberry Center, we offer treatment to individuals ages 18 and older who are dealing with drug and/or alcohol abuse, including MDMA, along with co-occurring mental health issues.

Our comprehensive treatment program provides care in both inpatient and partial hospitalization settings, tailored to each patient’s specific needs for long-term recovery.

Our dedicated team of doctors, psychiatrists, and nurses apply proven, evidence-based treatment modalities at every step of the recovery process. If you’re ready to seek help, reach out to our admissions specialists at (888) 513-0317 or ask your questions via our confidential contact form.

Is MDMA Ecstasy?

As mentioned earlier, MDMA is the primary ingredient in what is commonly referred to as Ecstasy. However, Ecstasy often contains other substances, making it a less “pure” form of MDMA.

Is MDMA a Sex Drug?

Is MDMA the Same as Ecstasy?

Is MDMA Addictive?

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

The body metabolizes MDMA relatively quickly, but traces of the substance can linger. Standard urine tests can typically detect MDMA for up to 3 to 4 days after usage. However, this window can vary depending on individual metabolic rates, overall health, and frequency of use.