MDMA(HARMFUL)
MDMA is an entactogen that floods the brain with serotonin (and dopamine/norepinephrine), producing euphoria, empathy, and closeness. Clinical trials of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD have shown large benefits, though regulators have asked for more data before approval. Recreational risks include hyperthermia and hyponatremia, post-use mood dips, potential serotonergic neurotoxicity with heavy use, and frequent adulteration of street supply.
Too little may be associated with
No requirement.
Too much may be associated with
Neurotoxicity, overheating, serotonin depletion, addiction.
Informational only — not medical advice.
Neurotransmitters
Hormones
Related
Research (7)
- Amphetamine Toxicity Vasan et al. (2026) PubMed ↗
- Effects of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD on self-experience Bessel (2024) Full text ↗ PubMed ↗
- Pharmacology of Drugs Used as Stimulants Docherty et al. (2021) Full text ↗ PubMed ↗
- Selective filtering of excitatory inputs to nucleus accumbens by dopamine and serotonin Christoffel et al. (2021) Full text ↗ PubMed ↗
- Inhibition and impulsivity: behavioral and neural basis of response control Bari et al. (2013) Full text ↗ PubMed ↗
- Human pharmacology of MDMA: pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and disposition de et al. (2004) Full text ↗ PubMed ↗
- Serotonin neurotoxins--past and present Baumgarten et al. (2004) Full text ↗ PubMed ↗
Links
Recovery resources
Help for mdma use and recovery. Not an endorsement or medical advice — see all recovery resources.
SAMHSA National Helpline (US)
A free, confidential, 24/7 US treatment-referral and information line for individuals and families facing substance use or mental health disorders.
Co-Anon Family Groups
Support for the families and friends of someone with a cocaine or other drug problem.
Families Anonymous (FA)
A 12-step fellowship for the relatives and friends of people affected by drug abuse or related behavioral problems.
Nar-Anon Family Groups
A 12-step program for the families and friends of people addicted to drugs.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
A global 12-step fellowship for people recovering from addiction to any drug.
SMART Recovery
A secular, science-based recovery program using cognitive-behavioral tools for any addictive behavior.
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