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MDMA and Ecstasy Addiction - Counselling and Treatment MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is an amphetamine which is sold in a capsule, as a powder or in pill form (known as ecstasy). Tablets and capsules are ingested orally or crushed and snorted. The powder form is snorted or even smoked. MDMA and ecstasy addiction is not very common; however it is a drug which often leads to the user trying much harder drugs whilst intoxicated, such as methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin.   The effects of MDMA and ecstasy last for approximately four to six hours, beginning with a rise in euphoria (known as "coming up") and ending with a sharp decline of the euphoric feelings (known as "a comedown"). MDMA causes a sense of intense euphoria, lack of inhibitions, increased self-confidence, and feelings of peace, excitement and wellbeing. The drug also increases the heart rate and energy, causes sweating, increases sensory perception, decreases appetite and dilates pupils to an abnormal size.   MDMA and ecstasy are commonly used in the rave culture because of the feelings of love, empathy and intimacy felt by users. The fast electronic music (generally house or trance music) seems to increase the user's enjoyment of the drug and the feelings of euphoria which accompany it. Those using ecstasy at a rave are likely to experiment with other drugs as their inhibitions are lowered dramatically and drugs are easily available at these events. It is popular to take LSD at the same time as MDMA which is known as "candy flipping"   Ecstasy is a relatively new drug and very little is known about the long term after effects of chronic use and MDMA addiction. However, those consuming the drug regularly report severe weight loss and depression. MDMA addiction treatment at drug treatment facilities may be needed for the addict to find abstinence from this drug. Whilst ecstasy and MDMA are not physically addictive they can be mentally addictive. Drug addiction counselling accompanied by a 12 Step recovery programme and a healthy way of life has been proven to assist addicts in finding recovery from their addiction.   If you or someone you know is struggling with a drug problem contact Oasis Counselling Centre for addiction, based in Plettenberg Bay, to find out about recovery from addiction.