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MDMA and Ecstasy
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MDMA and Ecstasy

Also known as: Caps, ecstasy, pills, pingers, bikkies, flippers, molly.

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What is MDMA?
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What is MDMA?

Commonly in tablet or capsule form, MDMA comes in a variety of different colours and sizes – often featuring a picture, symbol or logo. It can also come in powder or crystal form and is can be swallowed, snorted or injected. It increases feelings of empathy and compassion.

MDMA is also known as ecstasy. However, pills sold as ecstasy sometimes only have a small amount of MDMA or none at all. Other drugs and ‘fillers’ will be used instead, making it hard to know what effects to expect from pill to pill.

Immediate effects

  • Euphoria
  • Nausea
  • Sense of wellbeing
  • Sweating
  • Confidence
  • Loss of inhibition
  • Jaw cleaning
  • Teeth grinding

Long-term effects

  • Colds or flu
  • Depression
  • Tolerance
  • Dependence

How to reduce harm

  • Try a small dose and wait 2 hours before taking anymore
  • Take into consideration your environment and if there is somebody to help you if needed
  • Avoid taking high doses that are more likely to cause an unpleasant and overwhelming experience (particularly for first time use)
  • Take regular breaks to cool down and consistently drink water
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How it works with other drugs
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How it works with other drugs

When you mix amphetamines with MDMA, you are at high risk of anxiety and reduced brain functioning due to dopamine depletion. The combination will also place strain on the heart and other parts of the body, which can cause a stroke.

Physical risks

Heart attack, brain haemorrhage, over-heating, or swelling off the brain.

Legal risks

MDMA is an illegal substance. If you are found in possession of MDMA, you could be arrested or charged with a criminal offence

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Treatment and support services
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Treatment and support services 

Counselling Online offers free, confidential 24/7 access to trained counsellors who can help you work through your goals and identify services to support you in your area. Have a chat to one of our counsellors if you’re not sure where you’d like to get started. 

For further assistance, check out these services:

If you’re looking for more information about other illicit or prescription drugs, visit the Australian Drug Foundation’s Drug Facts, a comprehensive and straight-forward guide.

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What can I do next?
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What can I do next?

  • Take a self-assessment to help you decide if you should consider seeking help.
  • Get support from others who have been where you are now, in our community forums.
  • Try out some of our tips for making a change — they're simple and suitable no matter your stage in your journey.