MDMA info card

Apr 7

MDMA: molly, ecstasy, x, e

MDMA is a stimulant and entactogen, meaning it increases energy and enhances feelings of empathy, connection, and emotional openness. It is popular at clubs, raves, and festivals.

How it hits:

Effects begin in 20–40 minutes, peak around 1–2 hours and gradually fade over 3–6 hours. After-effects may linger longer. High doses can feel overwhelming, some users report dizziness, confusion, or emotional blunting.
Frequent use can deplete serotonin and reduce MDMA effects. Taking breaks between uses is recommended.
Side effects and complications include jaw clenching, teeth grinding, eye twitching, dehydration, increased heart rate and blood pressure, pupil dilation, sweating, appetite suppression, difficulty urinating, overheating (hyperthermia), water intoxication (hyponatremia), anxiety or paranoia, and potential liver injury.
Crash: Can last 1–3 days and may include fatigue, low mood, anxiety, or irritability, especially after lack of sleep or high doses.

! In Philadelphia, many substances sold as ecstasy or molly do not actually contain MDMA, and may instead contain methamphetamine, synthetic cathinones, or other research stimulants.

Risky MDMA combos:

Mixing drugs increases the risk of serious health issues. Always check individual interactions and limit combinations:

+ Other stimulants (like cocaine, amphetamines) = Increases risk of overheating, heart strain, and seizures.

+ SSRIs (like Prozac, Zoloft) = Can reduce MDMA's effects, which may lead to risky redosing.

+ Alcohol = can reduce your awareness of MDMA’s effects, leading to overheating or accidental overuse.

Stay safer:

Eat well and stay hydrated before going out. Nutritious meals and non-alcoholic drinks help protect your body and ease the crash.

Sip 1 to 2 cups of water per hour, more if active (dancing, sweating), less if resting. Avoid chugging large amounts quickly, which can lead to water toxicity (hyponatremia).

Take breaks from dancing and seek shade or cool areas. Overheating is one of the biggest MDMA-related risks.

If using during sex, discuss boundaries with your partner(s) before using.

Chew gum or candy to manage jaw clenching and reduce teeth grinding.

Don’t roll too often. Needing more may mean your brain needs a break.

If using 5-HTP to support recovery, wait at least 12 hours to reduce serotonin syndrome risk.

Call 911 if someone experiences confusion, loss of consciousness or seizure, chest pain, severe headache, or elevated body temperature.

Keep naloxone nearby: there is a risk that substances sold as or mistaken for MDMA may contain opioids (such as fentanyl) or other adulterants. Having naloxone accessible can help reverse a potential opioid overdose if exposure occurs.

Look out for each other tonight:

It’s okay to say no or take a break whenever you need.

Stay alert for any signs of distress and step in to help if needed.
In an emergency, call 911 for medical services. In Pennsylvania, you are protected under the Good Samaritan Law (Act 139 of 2014, "Drug Overdose Response Immunity Act") and will not get in trouble with the police.