What are the effects of acute doses of MDMA (Ecstasy)?
MDMA works in the brain by increasing the activity levels of at least three neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinepherine. Much like other amphetamines, MDMA causes these neurotransmitters to be released from their storage sites in neurons, increasing brain activity. Compared to the potent stimulant methamphetamine, MDMA triggers a larger increase in serotonin and a smaller increase in dopamine. Serotonin is a major neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, sleep, pain, emotion, and appetite, as well as other behaviors. By releasing large amounts of serotonin, and also interfering with its synthesis, MDMA leads to a significant depletion of this important neurotransmitter. As a result, it takes the human brain a significant amount of time to rebuild the store of serotonin needed to perform important physiological and psychological functions.
