Molly Addiction: Symptoms, Effect, Treatment and Consideration

Molly addiction involves the compulsive use of Molly, a street name for MDMA, which is a drug known for its stimulant and empathogenic effects. Molly is a synthetic psychoactive substance that affects mood and perception by increasing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This heightened neurotransmitter activity leads to feelings of euphoria, but repeated use can result in tolerance, dependence, and an addiction cycle that is challenging to overcome.

Common symptoms of molly addiction include intense cravings, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, depression, and difficulty concentrating. According to Parrott, A. C., et al. ‘s 2013 study “Chronic tolerance to recreational MDMA (ecstasy) and the brain serotonin system” individuals with MDMA addiction often experience intense psychological cravings due to its effect on serotonin and dopamine pathways. Repeated use of Molly increases tolerance, meaning higher doses are required to achieve the same effects. 

The causes of molly addiction include a genetic predisposition, peer pressure, and psychological factors like seeking relief from anxiety and depression. According to Palmer, R. H. C. et al. ‘s 2015 study ‘Genetic risk factors for substance use and addiction’, genetic factors contribute to about 40-60% of an individual’s vulnerability to addiction, including MDMA addiction.

The effects of molly addiction are severe. Chronic use can lead to severe mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and memory problems, and also increases the risk of cardiovascular issues. According to Parrott, A. C., et al. ‘s 2014 study ‘Chronic MDMA (Ecstasy) use, anxiety, depression, and serotonin levels’ regular MDMA users are four times more likely to develop chronic anxiety and depression.

Treatment for molly addiction involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy. Comprehensive treatment plans are essential for effective recovery and preventing relapse. Behavioral therapies, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are highly effective in helping individuals modify their behavior and cope with cravings. According to Marlatt, G. A., et al. ‘s 2011 study ‘Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders’,  integrating CBT into treatment plans improves recovery outcomes by 20-30% and significantly reduces relapse rates.

What Is Molly Addiction? 

Molly addiction is a substance addiction characterized by the compulsive use of MDMA despite experiencing negative consequences. People addicted to Molly have developed a physical and psychological dependence on the drug, needing it to function normally to prevent experiencing withdrawal symptoms. 

According to the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, there were over 3,000 admissions to treatment facilities for MDMA and other club drug dependencies in 2018. Research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) indicates that long-term MDMA use can lead to significant neurochemical changes in the brain, resulting in cognitive deficits and mood disturbances.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Molly Addiction? 

The signs and symptoms of Molly addiction are intense cravings, increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, neglect of responsibilities, and social withdrawal. The key signs and symptoms of molly addiction are provided below: 

• Intense cravings: Intense cravings to use Molly are defined by the persistent and overpowering desire to use. Studies show that 70-80% of individuals addicted to MDMA experience intense cravings, often thinking about the drug constantly and feeling an urgent need to use it, even during periods of abstinence. This is due to the significant release of serotonin and dopamine during use, leading to dependence.
• Increased tolerance: Needing larger doses of Molly to achieve the same effects. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to the drug, requiring more to experience the same high. Research indicates that over 60% of regular MDMA users experience increased tolerance within the first few months of consistent use as the body becomes accustomed to the drug’s effects on the brain’s serotonin system.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing negative physical and psychological effects when not using Molly. Symptoms include fatigue, depression, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Studies report that 50-70% of chronic users experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using, with psychological symptoms like depression and irritability being the most pronounced due to serotonin depletion.
• Neglect of responsibilities: Ignoring daily responsibilities and obligations due to a preoccupation with using Molly. This includes poor performance at work or school and neglecting personal hygiene. In a study of MDMA users, 45% reported significant declines in job or school performance as their addiction deepened.
• Social withdrawal: Social isolation is common among Molly users. Approximately 35-50% of frequent users reported avoiding social interactions and activities they previously enjoyed, primarily due to mood changes and anxiety resulting from drug use.
• Behavioral changes: Engaging in risky or illegal activities to obtain Molly. This can include stealing or lying to get money to continue using. Data from a study in Addiction Research & Theory found that 30-40% of individuals with MDMA addiction engage in risky behaviors, including stealing, lying, or engaging in unsafe sexual practices.
• Physical signs: Noticeable weight loss, changes in appetite, and altered sleep patterns. These physical changes can be a direct result of Molly use and its impact on the body. Research found that 25-35% of long-term MDMA users experience significant changes in weight and sleep habits due to the drug’s impact on the body’s energy levels and appetite.
• Mental health issues: Increased anxiety, paranoia, and mood swings are hallmarks of using Molly. Long-term use can exacerbate or trigger mental health disorders. Studies indicate that 40-60% of long-term users develop anxiety or mood disorders, with MDMA use exacerbating pre-existing mental health conditions or triggering new disorders.

What Are The Causes of Molly Addiction? 

The causes of Molly addiction are genetic predisposition, environmental factors, psychological issues, and early exposure to drug use. These factors increase the likelihood of developing an addiction to Molly.

• Genetic predisposition: Genetic predisposition increases the likelihood of developing a condition due to inherited genetic factors. Research suggests that individuals with a family history of substance use disorders are more likely to develop addictions themselves. A study published in Nature Genetics found that genetic heritability can account for 40-60% of the risk for addiction, indicating a strong genetic component in substance abuse vulnerability.
• Environmental factors: Environmental factors encompass the external conditions and influences that affect an individual’s likelihood of engaging in drug use, including exposure to drug use, socioeconomic status, and peer pressure. Being in environments where drug use is normalized or encouraged, such as clubs and music festivals, increases the likelihood of experimenting with and regularly using Molly. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) emphasizes that social and environmental factors are crucial in the onset and continuation of substance use.
• Psychological issues: Psychological factors refer to mental health conditions and emotional states that contribute to substance use, including disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry highlights that people with untreated or poorly managed mental health disorders are at higher risk for substance use disorders, including MDMA addiction. This self-medication can lead to a cycle of dependency, as the drug temporarily alleviates psychological distress but exacerbates it in the long run.
• Early exposure to drug use: Early exposure to drugs refers to the initiation of drug use during adolescence or childhood, which significantly increases the risk of developing addiction later in life. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that early exposure to drugs is a significant predictor of later substance abuse and addiction.

What Are The Effects of Molly Addiction? 

The effects of Molly addiction are severe mental health issues, physical health complications, cognitive impairments, and social consequences. These effects can significantly impact an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life.

• Severe mental health issues: Chronic use of Molly can lead to serious mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and increased risk of suicidal thoughts. A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that MDMA use is associated with long-term changes in mood and emotional regulation, often exacerbating underlying psychiatric conditions. These mental health issues can persist even after discontinuing drug use.
• Physical health complications: Molly addiction can cause a range of physical health problems, such as cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and arrhythmias, and hyperthermia, which can lead to organ failure. The Journal of Psychopharmacology reports that MDMA’s stimulant properties can place significant strain on the heart and other bodily systems, increasing the risk of acute medical emergencies.
• Cognitive impairments: Long-term use of Molly can lead to cognitive deficits, including memory problems, difficulties with attention, and impaired decision-making. Research in the Journal of Neuroscience indicates that MDMA damages serotonin-producing neurons, which play a crucial role in cognitive functions. These impairments can affect daily functioning and reduce the ability to perform complex tasks.
• Social consequences: Molly addiction often leads to significant social consequences, including strained relationships, job loss, financial difficulties, and legal issues. The Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment highlights that individuals struggling with addiction may neglect responsibilities and engage in behaviors that jeopardize their social and professional lives. The social isolation that often accompanies addiction can further exacerbate mental health issues.

How Does Molly Addiction Affect Your Physical health?

Molly addiction severely affects physical health by damaging the cardiovascular system, and other major organs including the liver, kidneys, and brain. The impact varies from person to person depending on the severity of use, age, overall health, and other factors. Molly increases heart rate and blood pressure, leading to hypertension, arrhythmias, and even heart failure. 

Molly addiction affects the brain by altering the balance of the neurotransmitter serotonin, leading to emotional dysregulation, memory issues, impaired decision-making, and mood disorders. According to Parrott, A. C.’s 2013 study  ‘The long-term negative health consequences of MDMA (ecstasy) use: A review of prospective studies in humans’ MDMA use neurotoxic effects on the brain’s serotonin system, leading to emotional instability, memory problems, and impaired cognitive function.”

Prolonged use of Molly can also cause liver failure due to toxic buildup that the body cannot safely process. Kidney damage is another adverse side effect of using Molly, caused by dehydration. How Can Molly Addiction Affect Your Mental health?

Molly addiction often leads to mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and emotional instability. Chronic use of MDMA disrupts the brain’s serotonin system, which regulates mood, leading to heightened anxiety and depressive symptoms. According to Schifano, F., et al. ‘s 2014 study ‘Chronic neuropsychiatric symptoms following MDMA (‘Ecstasy’) use’, long-term MDMA users are at an increased risk of developing persistent mood disorders. The emotional instability caused by Molly addiction can result in difficulty managing emotions and coping with stress, exacerbating the cycle of addiction.

How Does Molly Addiction Affect The Brain?

Molly addiction affects the brain by altering the balance of serotonin, a neurotransmitter known as the “happy chemical.” The disruption caused by addiction leads to emotional dysregulation and cognitive impairments. The damage to serotonin-producing neurons can lead to difficulties with memory, learning, and executive functions. 

Users may experience problems with short-term memory, attention span, and decision-making abilities. These cognitive deficits are often linked to the neurotoxic effects of MDMA on the hippocampus, a critical region of the brain involved in memory formation. According to Parrott, A. C.’s 2013 study ‘The long-term negative health consequences of MDMA (ecstasy) use: A review of prospective studies in humans’, chronic users experience prolonged neuropsychological effects, increasing the risk of relapse. 

What Are The Risk Factors for Molly Addiction? 

The risk factors for Molly addiction include genetic predisposition, environmental influences, psychological conditions, and early exposure to drug use. These factors for molly addiction are explored below: 

• Genetic Predisposition: A genetic predisposition for drug use refers to the increased likelihood of developing a substance use disorder due to inherited genetic factors. Genetic factors play a significant role in the susceptibility to Molly addiction. According to Uhl, G. R., et al. ‘s 2019 study “Genetics of substance use disorders: Relevance to prevention and treatment”, up to 40-60% of an individual’s vulnerability to addiction can be attributed to genetic factors.
• Environmental Influences: Environmental factors such as exposure to drug use, socioeconomic status, and peer pressure contribute significantly to the risk of molly addiction. According to Butler, G. K., & Montgomery, A. M. ‘s 2004 study ‘Impulsivity, risk taking, and recreational ‘ecstasy’ (MDMA) use.’, the role of social environments, such as music festivals and parties, increase the risk of Molly use due to peer influence and drug availability.
• Psychological Conditions: Underlying mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma, can lead individuals to use Molly as a form of self-medication. According to Sessa, B., et al.’s 2019 study ‘MDMA-assisted therapy for the treatment of PTSD and its associated conditions: Preliminary findings from the MAPS-sponsored trials’, there is a strong association between untreated mental health disorders, such as PTSD, and increased risk of MDMA use for self-medication, resulting in dependency and worsened mental health.
• Early Exposure to Drug Use: Early exposure to drugs, particularly during adolescence, significantly heightens the risk of developing addiction. According to King, K. M., et al. ‘s 2011 study ‘Early adolescent alcohol use and its impact on substance use disorder risk’,  early exposure to substances during adolescence is associated with a two- to three-fold increase in the risk of developing a substance use disorder, including MDMA addiction, in later years.

How Is Molly Addiction Treated?

To treat Molly addiction, explore multiple modalities, including medication, behavioral therapies, and support systems,  as well as in-patient and out-patient treatment programs that incorporate various healing tools and modalities. For severe addiction, in-patient programs typically last 60-90 days and show higher success rates, according to studies from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Integrated care that combines these elements has been shown to improve recovery outcomes.

Therapy

Therapy is a structured treatment process that involves the interaction between a trained professional such as a psychologist, therapist, or counselor and an individual, group, or family, aimed at addressing emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues. 

Behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management (CM), and motivational interviewing focus on modifying drug-use behaviors, developing coping strategies, and addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. Behavioral therapy programs typically last from 12 to 24 weeks, but long-term support and maintenance therapy may continue for several years to prevent relapse.

A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that integrating behavioral therapy with MAT led to a significant reduction in relapse rates and improved long-term outcomes compared to MAT alone . The American Psychological Association highlights that CBT alone reduces relapse rates by up to 40-50% over a year. Behavioral therapy addresses underlying emotional and psychological triggers and can be tailored to the needs of the individual, but this approach requires a long-term commitment and may not be easily accessible to all due to the cost of ongoing therapy sessions. 

Self Help Groups

Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), provide peer support and a community of individuals who understand the challenges of addiction. These groups offer a platform for sharing experiences, receiving encouragement, and maintaining accountability. 

Research published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research indicates that participation in 12-step programs leads to a 20-30% improvement in sustained recovery rates over time. A study in Addiction found that regular engagement in support groups enhances social support and reduces the risk of relapse. 

Participation in support groups is ongoing, often continuing for many years to support sustained sobriety. Self-help groups create a sense of community which is essential for long-term sobriety. The main drawback is that these groups do not offer one on one support that is required for treating the issues at the root of addiction. 

Medications

While there are no specific medications approved solely for treating Molly addiction, SSRIs or benzodiazepines  may be prescribed to manage withdrawal symptoms and co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. The use of medication depends on individual needs and the severity of symptoms.

According to McCann, U. D., & Ricaurte, G. A. ‘s 2007 study ‘Effects of MDMA on human health and implications for therapeutic use’, the use of SSRIs and other antidepressants in individuals with MDMA addiction led to a 30-50% reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms during the early stages of recovery. Furthermore, the stabilization of mood through medication aids in improving engagement in therapy, which is essential for long-term recovery.

Medications also play a role in managing the serotonin depletion caused by prolonged MDMA use. Since chronic Molly use is linked to long-term damage to serotonin neurons, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may also be used to help regulate serotonin levels, addressing the emotional dysregulation that often occurs in withdrawal. 

Treating Underlying Symptoms

Underlying symptoms refer to the root causes or contributing factors that may not be immediately visible but drive the development and persistence of a condition, such as addiction or mental health disorders. Properly treating underlying symptoms involves diagnosing and treating underlying mental health issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD) and socio-environmental factors contributing to substance use. Treatment often includes a combination of psychiatric care, trauma therapy, and social services. 

Studies in The American Journal of Psychiatry show that addressing co-occurring disorders significantly improves treatment outcomes, with a 50% reduction in relapse when both conditions are treated concurrently. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) emphasizes integrated care as essential for effective recovery. While this approach is effective because it targets the root causes of addiction and improves the chances of long term recovery, it requires comprehensive care from various health providers which may be difficult for some to access due to the high cost.

Once a patient has gone through a medically supervised detox, which takes about 5-10 days, they can receive the support they need to address underlying emotional and psychological wounds. Inpatient rehab lasts anywhere from 30-90 days but can last up to 6 months or longer, depending on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s progress. Outpatient rehab has no fixed time frame, and is tailored to address a person’s unique needs. 

FAQs

Does Molly addiction cause depression?

Yes, Molly addiction can cause depression. Chronic use of MDMA affects the brain’s serotonin system, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood. According to Parrott, A. C.’s 2012) study ‘MDMA and serotonin neurotoxicity: The empirical evidence for its adverse effects in humans’, frequent MDMA users are at an increased risk of developing long-term mood disorders, including major depression, as a result of the neurotoxic effects of the drug on serotonin neurons.

Is Molly addiction a disease?

Yes, molly addiction is considered a disease. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines addiction as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. Molly addiction alters the brain’s reward pathways and affects decision-making and behavior, similar to other forms of addiction.

Is Molly addiction common among teenagers? 

Yes, Molly is a popular party drug often used by teenagers and young adults to enhance social experiences. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), MDMA use is highest among young people aged 18-25, with 2.4% of individuals in this age group reporting use in the past year. This makes Molly a popular drug in social environments frequented by teenagers and young adults.

What are the common methods of using Molly? 

Molly is typically taken as a pill or capsule but can also be crushed and snorted or dissolved in liquid and consumed. The most common method is oral ingestion, but some users opt for snorting or dissolving the drug to speed up the onset of effects. According to Schifano, F., et al.’s  2014 study ‘MDMA (Ecstasy): Pharmacological effects and patterns of use’, the method of consumption can influence the intensity and duration of the drug’s effects, with snorting often resulting in a quicker onset but shorter duration compared to oral use.

Is it possible to overdose on Molly? 

Yes, it is possible to overdose on molly. Symptoms of an overdose include high blood pressure, faintness, panic attacks, loss of consciousness, and in severe cases, seizures or death. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), high doses of MDMA can cause hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature), which can lead to organ failure, particularly kidney and liver failure, if not treated promptly. MDMA use has been associated with over 10,000 emergency room visits annually in the United States.

How long does it take to recover from Molly addiction? 

Recovery from Molly addiction varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the addiction, the individual’s mental health, and whether there are any co-occurring disorders. Recovery time depends on many factors and is unique to the individual. Initial detoxification may take a few days to weeks, while treatment and recovery support can extend over several months to years.