Molly/MDMA Effects, Dangers, & Substance Use Treatment

MDMA, commonly known as molly, X, E, or ecstasy, is an illegal lab-made drug that has both stimulant and psychedelic properties. These qualities can produce a euphoric effect that makes it a popular nightlife club and party drug.

This article will go over the effects and dangers of MDMA, as well as treatment options for substance use disorder.

What Is Molly?

Molly is a slang name for the synthetic substance 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). By itself, MDMA has properties that are similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens. It can make people feel more energetic, lively, and excited, and experience a sense of euphoria.

The drug can also distort a person’s sense of time or sensory perceptions, like visual, tactile, or auditory stimulation. Although the base chemical for both ecstasy and Molly is allegedly the same, the drugs have some differences. The primary difference is that the term Molly, short for “molecular,” was a rebranding of ecstasy introduced in the 2000s after ecstasy developed a poor reputation due to its impurity. There are additional differences between the two substances.

No amount of drug toxicity is worth a few hours of fun. American Addiction Centers offers 24-hour medical detox, treatment, and ongoing care. If you find yourself battling a substance use disorder (SUD) involving the abuse of psychostimulants such as Molly or ecstasy, contact one of our admissions navigators at to get started on treatment today!

Molly/MDMA vs Ecstasy: Are They the Same?

Molly and ecstasy are essentially the same substance: MDMA. However, there are subtle differences between the two drugs.

Molly is the nickname given to the crystal powder form of MDMA, which is often sold in capsules and taken orally. It is also known as lover’s speed, hug drug, and clarity.

Ecstasy typically refers to the pressed tablet form of the drug. It is also known as disco biscuit, XTC, E, Eve, Adam, and Bean.

Many people mistakenly believe that molly is the more “pure” form of MDMA; however tests conducted by the DEA on seized molly and ecstasy have shown that both are often cut with different substances — and sometimes does not contain any MDMA at all.

Drugs That Molly/Ecstasy Is Cut With

Reports of MDMA’s potential for addiction or abuse vary, but as an intoxicating substance that changes brain chemistry, it can lead to serious problems, even in its most pure form. Because forms of MDMA like ecstasy and Molly are often cut with other very dangerous stimulants, it is difficult to know what drug is being ingested. This can lead to overdose, hospitalization, and even death. MDMA can lead to overheating and dehydration, which can rapidly cause physical damage and organ failure.

What is Ecstasy Cut With?

Pressed pills of ecstasy may contain MDMA as well as:

• Methamphetamine (speed)
• Ketamine
• Cocaine
• Dextromethorphan (DXM), an OTC cough medicine
• Ephedrine
• Caffeine
• 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA)
• para-Methoxyamphetamine (PMA)

What Is Molly Cut With?

Molly, which became popular later than ecstasy, is often cut with synthetic drugs. Molly powder is often cut with:

• Caffeine
• Synthetic cathinones (bath salts), such as methylone (M1), 4-MEC, MDPV, mephedrone (4-MMC), Pentedrone, and MePP
• para-Methoxyamphetamine (PMA)
• 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA)
• NBOMe

Different Ways Molly/Ecstasy Is Used

MDMA by itself is a white or off-white powder or crystal. This powder can then either be sold in pressed tablets, which is ecstasy or as a “pure” powder, usually in capsules, which is Molly.

The crystalline form may also be sold under the name Molly or other names. The powder does not bind well into pill form by itself, so ecstasy involves at least some fillers to maintain its shape. In many cases, this means other active ingredients, which can have an intense effect on the person taking the ecstasy pill.

Ecstasy/molly is often taken orally. Molly powder and crushed pills can also be mixed in liquid and drank or snorted.

Molly/Ecstasy Side Effects

Molly interacts with the body via its stimulant and psychedelic properties. It can increase blood pressure, heart rate, alertness, and motor activity. Other physical side effects of molly use include:

• Muscle tension.
• Tremors.
• Teeth clenching.
• Muscle cramps.
• Nausea.
• Chills.
• Sweating.
• Blurred vision.

Molly/Ecstasy Comedown

The effects of molly/ecstasy can last from 3 to 6 hours, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), though it is not uncommon for individuals to take repeated doses to prolong the effects of the drug. Over the course of the following week after using molly, individuals may experience:

• Depression.
• Anxiety.
• Decreased appetite.
• Sleep problems.
• Attention difficulties.
• Problems with memory.
• Aggression and irritability.
• Impulsiveness.

Molly/MDMA Substance Use Treatment

Often, professional help is needed to overcome addiction and substance use patterns. Addiction treatment typically involves the following and more:

• Behavioral therapy
• Peer support
• Psychoeducation
• Treatment for co-occurring disorders

Sunrise House Treatment Center offers the above through various levels of addiction treatment, including medical detox, residential treatment, and aftercare support.

Give our compassionate admissions navigators a call at to learn more about our approach to treating Ecstasy/Molly substance abuse. Sunrise House Treatment Center, our comprehensive inpatient rehab in New Jersey, can help you overcome addiction and regain control of your life.