Understanding The Drug 'Molly'

What is Molly?

The drug commonly known as 'Molly' is a slang term for a substance scientifically called 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA. MDMA is a synthetic drug that can induce feelings of euphoria and increased energy, and is often used recreationally. It is prevalent in nightclubs and 'rave' scenes, and is popularly associated with the electronic dance music culture. Understanding what Molly is, its effects on the user, and its dangers, helps in explaining the length of time it lasts in the body.

Molly’s Effects on Users

When consumed, Molly affects the user's brain by increasing the activity of three neurotransmitters: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. The heightened dopamine levels lead to increased energy and euphoria, while raised norepinephrine levels result in increased heart rate and blood pressure. An increase in serotonin levels, meanwhile, influences mood, appetite, and other functions. Its pronounced rise can induce feelings of emotional closeness and empathy, as well as triggering hormone release, which can result in sexual arousal.

Dangers of Using Molly

While many recreational users of Molly view it as a safe and fun drug due to its pleasurable effects, there are several significant dangers associated with its use. These include hyperthermia, a potentially lethal condition where the body’s temperature becomes dangerously high. It also includes dehydration due to increased sweating and physical activity, hyponatremia which is a potentially deadly electrolyte disturbance, and potential neurotoxic effects.

The Duration of Molly's Effects

Onset and Peak Effects of Molly

When a user takes Molly orally, which is the usual route, the effects typically begin within 30 to 45 minutes. The 'peak' effects, where the user feels the strongest impact, usually occur around an hour and a half to two hours after ingestion. This is when the user experiences intense sensations of euphoria, increased sensory perception, and heightened emotional warmth towards others. Molly's effects then gradually diminish over time. This phase is explained by the fact that Molly is quickly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body. The peak effects occur when the highest blood concentration of the drug is reached.

The Plateau Phase and Molly's Half-Life

After the peak effects, users often experience a 'plateau' phase, where Molly's effects remain stable for a few hours. This phase typically lasts for 2 to 3 hours. After the plateau phase, the effects decline gradually. The half-life of Molly, which is the time needed for its concentration in the body to fall by half, is estimated to be around 8 to 9 hours. However, this does not mean that all Molly effects will be gone after this time. Some effects, particularly changes in mood and cognition, can last for several days after the drug's use.

'Coming Down' from Molly and Long-Term Effects

As the effects of Molly dissipate, the user enters the 'come down' phase. Here, there may be feelings of restlessness, anxiety, irritability, and depression. These adverse effects can last for a day or two and are often referred to as a 'Molly Hangover.' In some extreme cases and in long-term users, symptoms can persist for up to a week. Furthermore, long-term Molly use can lead to more severe health problems, including memory issues, decreased cognitive function, and consistent mood changes.

Taking Molly and Safety Precautions

Purity and Dosage of Molly

One of the significant risks when taking Molly is the unknown purity and dosage of the substance. Since it's an illegal and unregulated drug, there is no guarantee of its composition. In many cases, substances sold as Molly have been found to contain other drugs, such as synthetic cathinones ("bath salts"), or no MDMA at all. Therefore, consuming Molly is inherently risky due to its unpredictable nature. The dosage taken also influences the duration and severity of Molly's effects, as higher doses lead to more prolonged and adverse reactions.

Harm Reduction Measures

While the only sure way to avoid the risks of Molly is to abstain from using it, several harm reduction measures can be taken if one chooses to use it. These include staying hydrated, particularly when using Molly in a club or rave environment where one may dance and sweat a lot, resting, and avoiding mixing Molly with other substances, especially alcohol, which can increase dehydration.

Getting Help for Addiction

One possible consequence of regularly using Molly is developing a substance use disorder. Individuals who find themselves unable to stop using Molly, despite negative consequences, should seek professional help. Many therapeutic interventions can help, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and 12-Step facilitation therapy. In severe cases, pharmacological treatments may be considered.