The Risks and Effects of Combining Alcohol and MDMA: Drinking on Molly
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Ever heard someone talking about "molly" and wondered, "Who's that?" No, molly isn’t the name of your friend's roommate or your neighbor’s new pet. In fact, molly is a street name for the drug MDMA — a drug that promises temporary euphoria and heightened sensations (at a steep price, of course, as it comes with significant health risks).
The idea of combining uppers such as MDMA with alcohol can be tempting. However, mixing alcohol and MDMA might not lead to the fun-filled night you're expecting — instead, it could be a recipe for disaster. Let's dive into the science behind this combination and see why they don’t play nicely together.
First of all, what is molly? MDMA stands for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception. Chemically, molly shares properties with both stimulants and hallucinogens, which means it can increase energy and pleasure while distorting sensory perceptions.
Structurally, MDMA (also known as ecstasy) is similar to stimulants like methamphetamine and hallucinogens like mescaline. This unique combination explains why it has a mixed bag of effects on our bodies.
While molly might sound intriguing, it comes with a host of risks. MDMA can cause a range of bodily responses:
Increased heart rate and blood pressure. Imagine your heart doing an extra round of cardio — but without the benefits. That's the kind of strain MDMA can put on it.
Our minds aren't left untouched, either. Initially, many users feel a rush of joy or euphoria and a heightened connection to others, making them more talkative or touchy-feely. However, some people might experience less-desirable mental effects:
Occasional party antics might seem harmless, but frequent or heavy MDMA use can lead to some prolonged concerns:
Now that we’ve met molly, we can turn to the next question — where did “she” come from? As it turns out, molly isn’t a new kid on the block — MDMA (aka ecstasy) has been around for over a century. In 1912, a German pharmaceutical company called Merck first synthesized MDMA. The company aimed to create a drug to control bleeding, but MDMA didn’t fit the bill. For many years, it gathered metaphorical dust on the laboratory shelves.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that the drug resurfaced in the US — not for medical treatments, but as a tool to assist in psychotherapy. Some therapists believed it helped patients open up and communicate better. However, it's important to note that this use was never approved by the FDA — with good reason. (After all, it “worked,” but only in the sense that amphetamines “work” for treating colds or heroin “works” for getting rid of a headache: the risks, to put it mildly, are not worth it).
By the 1980s, molly had found “her” way into the party scene as a recreational drug. And while those flashing disco lights and energetic dance moves might seem like distant history, molly still lingers.
So, we’ve covered MDMA's effects and dangers, as well as its history in the U.S.. But where does it stand on the world stage? Let's explore the legal status of MDMA around the world.
Now let’s switch gears a bit and see what happens when alcohol is in the picture. What’s behind the allure of mixing molly with booze? Many people drink alcohol to feel relaxed and sociable. On the other hand, MDMA is taken for its stimulating effects, which include heightened sensations, emotional warmth, and an amplified perception of sights and sounds. It seems like they could complement each other, right? Well, not exactly.
Alcohol acts as a depressant, slowing our central nervous system. This means it can reduce anxiety, lower inhibitions, and cause drowsiness. Conversely, MDMA (ecstasy) is a stimulant, speeding up various bodily functions and heightening sensations.
However, when combined, ecstasy and alcohol don't just cancel each other out. Instead, they act as antagonists inside our body, potentially straining our system. Here are the main side effects that can happen as a result of the mix:
Have you ever heard of the term "hyponatremia"? It may sound like a rare plant species or an ancient civilization, but it's a medical condition that can be serious, especially when mixing alcohol and MDMA.
Hyponatremia is a fancy term for a low sodium concentration in the blood. Sodium, that same stuff we have in our salt shakers, plays a critical role in many of our body's processes, including nerve function, muscle contractions, and maintaining proper fluid balance.
For one thing, MDMA can sometimes make people feel super thirsty. If we drink large amounts of water to quench this thirst, especially while dancing and sweating, we can end up diluting our blood’s sodium levels. Alcohol amplifies this effect by suppressing the release of an antidiuretic hormone, causing more fluid retention in the long run (after initially making us lose water).
Moreover, both dancing (commonly associated with MDMA use) and alcohol can make us sweat. Sweating causes a loss of salt from the body, which can further lower sodium levels if not adequately replenished.
Hyponatremia is no joke, and it can escalate quickly. Here are some symptoms to be aware of:
If someone consumes MDMA (which carries its own set of risks!), it's important to be mindful of fluid intake. Here are some quick tips:
Finally, here are some steps you can take to stay safe when alcohol and molly are in the picture.
In the fun of social gatherings, it's easy to get swept up in the moment. But your health and safety come first. The next time you're faced with the decision to mix alcohol and MDMA, remember the science, and opt for choices that prioritize your well-being. After all, the best memories are those where you felt your best, both during the moment and the morning after!
1. What is MDMA, commonly known as Molly?
MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic drug that has stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. It's popularly known as molly or Ecstasy and has been around since the early 20th century.
2. Are there side effects of using MDMA on its own?
Absolutely. MDMA can cause a range of physical effects like nausea, chills, sweating, and blurred vision. It can also impact psychologically, leading to anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.
3. How dangerous is it to mix alcohol with MDMA?
The combination can be risky. Statistics indicate heightened chances of dehydration, hyperthermia, increased toxicity, and impaired judgment when these substances are mixed.
4. I've heard of hyponatremia in relation to MDMA and alcohol. What is it?
Hyponatremia refers to a low sodium concentration in the blood. Both alcohol and MDMA can contribute to this condition, leading to symptoms like nausea, confusion, seizures, or even more severe outcomes.
5. How does the world view MDMA legally?
Most countries, including the U.S., Canada, UK, Japan, and many others, have restrictions or bans on the production, distribution, and use of MDMA, classifying it as a controlled or prohibited substance.
6. If someone does choose to consume MDMA, how can they mitigate the risk of hyponatremia?
It's crucial to be mindful of fluid intake, not to drink excessive water in a short time, and consider skipping alcohol. Replacing lost electrolytes with sports drinks can also help.
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