How does Molly work?

How does molly work?

Once a person ingests molly, the intestines absorb the chemicals and filter them into the bloodstream. A person who takes molly in tablet or capsule form may begin to feel the effects after around 45 minutes.

The effects of recreational doses of MDMA (50–150 mg) peak within 2 hours of a person taking it orally. If a person opts for nasal administration instead, they will notice the effects much sooner.

The drug’s effects then begin to wear off. In general, the effects last up to 6 hours after ingestion.

Molly affects the brain by increasing the activity of three brain chemicals: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. A surge in these chemicals causes effects such as:

  • increased heart rate
  • increased blood pressure
  • a boost in energy levels
  • elevated mood
  • nausea
  • chills
  • sweating
  • blurred vision
  • muscle cramps
  • teeth clenching

These effects may last for 3–6 hours. In the days and weeks following moderate molly intake, other symptoms and side effects can emerge. These include:

  • mood changes, including aggression and irritability
  • anxiety and depression
  • sleep problems
  • loss of appetite
  • issues with memory and attention span
  • loss of libido

Learn more about the effects and risks of taking molly here.

Metabolization

When a person takes molly orally, the drug makes its way into the stomach before moving to the intestines. From here, it passes into the bloodstream. At this point, the person begins to feel the effects of molly.

This includes effects on the stomach, heart, blood vessels, and muscles, as well as neurological effects such as agitation and anxiety.

The liver then breaks down the drug into chemical compounds called metabolites. MDMA and its metabolites pass to the kidneys, which will filter the drug out of the bloodstream.

The chemicals then move to the bladder, and they eventually leave the body in the urine. The body will also excrete some metabolites through feces and sweat.

The half-life of molly is approximately 8–9 hours. A drug’s half-life is the time it takes for the amount of the drug in a person’s system to be reduced by half. Research indicates that it takes five half-lives for the body to clear over 95% of the molly a person has taken.

Some MDMA metabolites may remain in a person’s system for even longer than this, though drug tests do not usually detect them.

Rate of Metabolization

Factors that affect the rate of Metabolization include the amount of molly a person has ingested and the time at which they took their last dose. Other factors that affect the rate of Metabolization include the person’s:

  • age
  • weight
  • metabolism
  • liver health
  • kidney health
  • last dose of other medications

Combining molly with other drugs may also affect the rate at which their body can process the chemicals.

There is also the risk that the drugs are contaminated with other substances. Many molly and ecstasy tablets contain MDMA, but also:

  • dextromethorphan, which is an over-the-counter cough suppressant
  • caffeine
  • cocaine
  • heroin
  • ketamine
  • methamphetamine
  • phencyclidine

If a molly tablet or powder contains these substances, metabolization times can vary greatly.

How is Ecstasy Used?

How is Ecstasy Used?

Ecstasy is usually used as a celebration drug. MDMA is the chemical located in ecstasy that creates psychoactive results. Drug testing is one approach to decide if a person is using ecstasy. That brings up a common question, how long does ecstasy stay in your system?

How is Ecstasy Used?

Ecstasy is most usually sold in tablet shape and taken orally. Maximum ecstasy tablets have a character imprint on them, as an instance a smiley face or a symbol. Some ecstasy is sold in liquid form. Ecstasy is regularly referred to as a party drug. customers regularly take ecstasy in social situations; at a dance club, music festival or a rave.

The environments that appeal to ecstasy users additionally pose a critical danger. those who want to live up for long periods of time and dance regularly take the drug. people that take the drug at a party, nightclub or a rave might also go through serious fitness risks. Ecstasy induced the body temperature to rise and while people are in an environment like a nightclub, they’re at danger for attaining dangerously excessive body temperatures and dehydration.

What is Ecstasy/,MDMA?

What is Ecstasy/MDMA?

Ecstasy or MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is an artificially manufactured drug that produces euphoria and empathy in individuals who use it. It has properties of both stimulant drugs (e.g., amphetamine) and hallucinogenic drugs (e.g., mescaline). Other names for the drug include Molly and XTC.

MDMA is categorized as a Schedule I controlled substance according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This means that MDMA has no formal medical uses (although there are studies that suggest it may be useful in treating certain psychiatric disorders), and it is a significant drug of abuse. The drug was most commonly abused by younger individuals at dance parties (raves) and concerts, but it has lost some of its popularity due to significant controls placed on its distribution.

Users of the drug can develop severe issues with overheating and brain damage. The mechanism of action of MDMA is not completely understood, but it is believed to affect the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

Have you lost control of your ecstasy use?
We remain open and committed to supporting your recovery journey. Sunrise House is taking every precaution to ensure patient and staff safety.

How the Body Processes Ecstasy

Most people who use MDMA take it orally. It is quickly absorbed in the gastrointestinal system and begins to exert its effects about 30 minutes after it is taken. Its levels peak in the system about 1-3 hours after ingesting it.

The half-life of the drug refers to the amount of time it takes the normal metabolic processes to reduce the concentration of the substance in the bloodstream by half. The organ that is primarily responsible for metabolizing substances in the blood is the liver. Half-lives are typically used to determine how long a drug will remain in the system.

The best available sources suggest that the half-life of MDMA ranges from six to nine hours, depending on individual. This means that the psychoactive effects, which are typically short-lived and most often last between three and five hours, will have most likely dissipated before the drug has entirely left the individual’s system.

If one considers that the half-life of MDMA is 6-7 hours, then it would take about 1.5-2 days for ecstasy to be eliminated from a person’s system. If the half-life in the individual is longer (e.g., 8-9 hours), it would take a bit longer than two days for the drug to be completely gone from the body. Thus, the best estimates suggest that most individuals would have MDMA eliminated from their system within about 2-3 days after they have completely stopped using the drug.

Given this information, we can speculate that:

    • MDMA would be detectable in urine for 2-4 days after use in most cases.
    • Saliva tests could detect the presence of MDMA from 1.5 hours to 10 hours after use.
    • MDMA would be detectable in blood for up to 24 hours following use.
    • Hair follicle tests, which are expensive but can detect the presence of drug use that may have occurred in the past, would most likely be able to detect the presence of MDMA for 90 days.

Several factors affect the length of time that MDA will remain in a person’s system. These factors also affect the ability of tests to detect the drug.

      • The amount of the drug taken can affect how long it will remain in the system. Obviously, taking large amounts results in the drug being eliminated at a slower rate than when smaller amounts are taken.
      • Use of multiple drugs can affect the length of time that any single drug remains in an individual’s system. For instance, using ecstasy with alcohol, a common practice, will result in the liver giving priority to metabolizing alcohol before it metabolizes any other substances. This could extend the length of time that ecstasy would remain in the system.
      • Different people have different rates of metabolisms. Some people have quicker metabolisms than others, and this can affect the rate at which drugs are processed out of the body.
      • Body weight is a significant factor in how quickly substances are metabolized. Heavier individuals should have quicker elimination times in most cases.
      • Genetic factors can also affect the rate at which specific drugs are metabolized.
      • Gender can affect the rate at which drugs are metabolized. In most cases, males metabolize drugs more quickly than females.
      • Older individuals typically metabolize substances more slowly than younger individuals.

There are some other factors that may be related to how efficiently ecstasy is metabolized.

    • The best way to ensure that ecstasy is metabolized quickly is to stop taking ecstasy and any other drugs.
    • Remaining hydrated will help the individual’s metabolism run smoothly and eliminate drugs more quickly than if one becomes dehydrated.
    • Remaining active can help to speed up an individual’s metabolism.
    • Individuals who are in better physical shape have more efficient overall body processes, including more efficient metabolisms.
    • Some supplements may help clear certain drugs from the body more quickly.

how long does it take to feel effect after taking MDMA?

How long does it take to feel effect after taking MDMA?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.

how long does MDMA last?

How long does MDMA last?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.

What are the dosage and frequency use of MDMA?

what are the dosage and frequency use of  MDMA?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.

how to get MDMA out of your system?

How to get MDMA out of your system?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.

how long does MDMA stay in your system?

How long does MDMA stay in your system?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.

what are the signs and symptoms of Overdose MDMA?

what are the signs and symptoms of Overdose MDMA?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.

How Long Does MDMA (Ecstasy) Stay in Your System?

How Long Does MDMA (Ecstasy) Stay in Your System?

MDMA in Your Blood, Urine, & Hair

How long MDMA stays in your system
Verywell / Joshua Seong

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant, hallucinogen, and entactogen. It is used recreationally for its mild hallucinogenic and stimulant properties, as well as its ability to increase emotional closeness.

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy or molly, though what is referred to by these names is rarely purely MDMA. Rather, it’s often “cut” with other substances.

MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it has no established medical use and a high potential for misuse. However, studies are underway to determine its effectiveness as a potential treatment for anxiety in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and terminal illness.

MDMA that is used recreationally isn’t manufactured as a standard dose. It is made by illegal labs and packaged as tablets, capsules, and powders of unknown strength and ingredients. The drug is intended to be snorted or taken orally.

MDMA can be detected in your body from one to 90 days. How long it is detectable depends on the type of test, the frequency of use, and a person’s unique physical characteristics.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

Blood: Up to 2 days

Urine: Up to 4 days

Saliva: Up to 2 days

Hair: Up to 90 days

How Long Does It Take to Feel Effects?

MDMA works by boosting the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are known to affect mood, energy level, appetite, trust, sexual activity, emotions, and sleep.

People who use ecstasy typically feel the effects within 30 minutes of taking the drug. Ecstasy can cause feelings of euphoria, warmth, openness, and clarity, as well as heightened sensations of touch, sound, and smell. These effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours.

MDMA also carries serious risks, including hyperthermia, cardiovascular effects, impaired mental capabilities, risky behavior, and overdose.

Several side effects of MDMA can persist for up to 24 hours after taking the drug, including:

  • Dry mouth
  • Jaw and/or teeth clenching that is uncontrollable
  • Muscle cramping or tension
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Vision problems (blurred vision or increased light sensitivity)

In the week following MDMA use, additional side effects have been reported, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased interest in and pleasure from sex
  • Depression
  • Impulsiveness and aggression
  • Irritability
  • Memory and attention problems
  • Sleep problems

How Long Does MDMA Last?

While the recreational effects of MDMA usually last for about 3 to 6 hours, the half-life of MDMA is 8 to 9 hours. In one study, researchers found that the peak effects of MDMA are observed within the first 1 and 2 hours, and decrease about 4 to 6 hours after taking the drug.1

MDMA is not one of the five drugs tested for by the standard five-panel drug test used by most employers; however, it does show up on the test.

If MDMA shows up during the amphetamine panel of the five-panel drug test, a confirmation test will be run specifically looking for MDMA.

Blood

Research suggests that when MDMA is taken by mouth, it reaches maximal blood concentration in about 2 hours. MDMA can be detected in blood for 1 to 2 days after it is taken.

Urine

Ecstasy can be present for 2 to 4 days in urine.

Hair

Hair follicles maintain a trace of all drugs a person has taken, including MDMA. This type of drug test is not common, but the presence of MDMA can linger for months in hair.

False Positive Testing

Always tell a testing agency about any drugs and supplements you are taking. This information can help prevent the presence of certain substances from triggering a false positive drug test result.

A 2010 study found that the anti-depressant trazodone can lead to false positives on a commercial enzyme immunoassay test (Ecstasy EMIT II assay) that detects MDMA in a sample of urine.2

If you receive a false positive drug test, calmly report all the medications and supplements you are taking. Additional tests can be performed to clear up any confusion.

Snorting vs. Oral Ingestion

How you take MDMA can also impact detection time. In general, the faster the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, the shorter the detection window.

For example, when snorted, MDMA will stay in the body for a shorter amount of time compared to oral ingestion.

Factors That Affect Detection Time

Many factors influence how an individual’s body processes or metabolizes MDMA, including how much is taken, how often it is taken, and the person’s metabolism.

Dosage & Frequency of Use

When taken in larger doses or as multiple doses over time, MDMA can stay in the body for longer. Similarly, one-time users will have a shorter detection time than people who use the drug more often.

Body Type

Many drugs, or their metabolites, tend to accumulate in fatty tissues. Therefore, a person with a higher body mass index (BMI) may take longer to fully eliminate the drug from their body.

Metabolism

Metabolism can be affected by age, activity level, and certain health conditions. A person can be a fast or slow metabolizer of any drug, including ecstasy. A person with a high metabolic rate tends to have a smaller detection window for MDMA than someone who has a slower rate.

Overall Health

Underlying health issues and medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease can also influence drug metabolism.

How to Get MDMA Out of Your System

Contrary to popular belief, drinking a lot of water will not flush MDMA from the body and help a user “beat” a drug test. In fact, not only is the practice ineffective but it can also be dangerous. During the first 12 hours after taking MDMA, the drug can exacerbate the effects of drinking too much water.

The only way to clear MDMA from the body is to stop taking the drug and allow the body time to metabolize and eliminate it.

Symptoms of Overdose

People who take MDMA may take more of the drug while the first dose is still in their system because they feel the “high” is beginning to wear off. When they get hit with a larger dose than was intended, it can lead to an accidental overdose.

Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:

  • Feeling faint
  • High blood pressure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures

Dangerous Interactions

The risk of overdose is increased when MDMA is mixed with other drugs, including alcohol. Additionally, substances cut into the MDMA will have their own effects and can influence how long the drug stays in the body.

MDMA can temporarily impede the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Extreme spikes in body temperature can damage the heart and kidneys, cause liver failure, and may result in someone’s death.

No adverse events have been documented in controlled, clinical environments, but the effect is believed to pose risk in club environments where users are dancing and not drinking enough water.

Well-intentioned narratives about drinking water when taking MDMA can backfire if people drink more water than they need. A 2016 study showed that MDMA use can increase water retention. If too much water is ingested, it increases the risk of water toxicity (hyponatremia).3

The symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea, confusion, fatigue, irritability, muscle spasms, and seizures.

If you suspect someone has overdosed or is having a negative reaction to MDMA, call 911 immediately.

Getting Help

Symptoms of ecstasy withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of use and dependency. Sometimes, people start using MDMA again or start using another drug to avoid withdrawal.

Symptoms of MDMA withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Depression

A Word From Verywell

MDMA or ecstasy is a commonly encountered “party drug,” but it’s not to be taken lightly. The drug is dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Taking MDMA can affect your physical and mental health. The risks of using ecstasy are serious. In some cases, an overdose of MDMA can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is using MDMA and is ready to quit, there is help available. A mental health professional can guide you through the process of stopping the drug, as well as support you through any withdrawal symptoms you might have.