Jim V.
Snorting Molly is a common method of use that significantly increases the risks of severe health complications.
This dangerous practice not only damages nasal tissues but also raises the likelihood of overdose from contaminated substances like fentanyl, which can lead to fatal and severe health complications.
MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic drug known for its stimulating and hallucinogenic effects. It enhances sensory perception, induces feelings of euphoria, and increases empathy. Often associated with rave culture and parties, MDMA is considered a Schedule I controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use in the U.S.
“Molly” refers to the crystalline or powdered form of MDMA. The term is short for “molecular,” implying a purer form of the drug compared to ecstasy pills, which are often mixed with other substances. Molly is typically snorted or swallowed, with snorting becoming increasingly popular due to its rapid effects.
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It can be swallowed or snorted, but snorting Molly increases potential health complications. As it is in powder form, people are typically snorting molly. The negative effects of snorting MDMA are high. When a drug comes in powder form, it comes with a higher risk.
People use MDMA for its euphoric effects, heightened sensory experiences, and increased feelings of connection and empathy. The effects typically begin 30–45 minutes after ingestion and peak within 20 minutes of onset, providing users with a temporary high that can last 3–6 hours.
The use of MDMA, particularly through snorting, can lead to numerous adverse side effects:
It has been found that drug use increases the risk of mental health issues. People who frequently take drugs often report feelings of depression and hopelessness. Mental health problems and drug abuse are often like a vicious cycle.
Substances like MDMA offer the person a temporary feeling of happiness. This is generally followed by an intense low after the effects of the drug have worn off. While taking drugs like MDMA may provide temporary respite, the symptoms of the pre-existing mental health issues will be much worse the days after.
If you suspect someone you know may be snorting molly, there are some visible signs. If a person takes high doses of MDMA, they may experience blurred vision. Other signs that a person has taken the drug include:
One of the reasons snorting molly can be life-threatening is the issue of drug purity. Typically, those who use drugs don’t test their purity before snorting. The powder may contain other substances, such as fentanyl, which can be life-threatening.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is fifty to one hundred times stronger than morphine. This is why fentanyl is responsible for many overdose deaths in the US today. It is a white powder that is often mixed with other white-colored drugs like MDMA, ecstasy, and cocaine. A person may not even realize they’re taking it and sharing the same batch with others. This is how snorting MDMA can hugely increase the risk of accidental overdose.
In Florida, 2013, it was found that substances being sold as molly actually contained methylone. Methylone is a synthetic chemical that is commonly used in bath salts.
One of the most dangerous aspects of snorting Molly is the risk of contamination with other substances like fentanyl or bath salts. Dealers often mix MDMA with cheaper and more dangerous substances to increase profits, leading to higher overdose rates.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50–100 times more potent than morphine, is a significant contributor to overdose deaths in the U.S. Even trace amounts of fentanyl mixed with MDMA can result in fatal overdoses, especially when snorted.
Snorting Molly directly affects the nasal mucous membranes, causing:
Sharing paraphernalia used for snorting increases the likelihood of transmitting bloodborne diseases like Hepatitis C. Damaged nasal tissues further exacerbate the risk of infection.
Yes, taking MDMA can have life-threatening consequences, including:
Yes, MDMA overdoses are possible and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an MDMA overdose include:
If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately.
There are different types of addiction treatment. The National Institute on Drug Addiction highlights the most effective treatments for ecstasy addiction as cognitive behavioral therapy and recovery support groups.
The type of treatment a person chooses may depend on the severity of the addiction and the substance they are addicted to. It is important to discuss your experiences with a trained medical professional to find the right treatment for you.
Addiction can be incredibly distressing for the person affected and their family members. It is important not to lose hope and remember that people successfully recover from addiction every day.
It is possible to achieve long-term recovery, especially when you have a treatment placement tailored to your individual needs. If you think you or someone you love may need addiction treatment for ecstasy addiction, Cornerstone offers a full, free, and confidential assessment. You can discuss the struggles you have been having with a treatment specialist and discuss a potential treatment placement.
Reviewed & Approved
This content has been reviewed for accuracy and comprehensiveness by Dr. Michael Stone, MD, FAAFP, ABAM, FASAM, Founder, and Phil Kosanovich, MBA, President & CEO of Cornerstone of Southern California. If you have any questions or notice any inaccuracies, please contact us at [email protected].
