How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?
Ecstasy, or MDMA or Molly, is a popular club drug for its euphoric effects. This article will provide essential information on the detection times of MDMA in urine, blood, and saliva if you have used MDMA and are concerned about how long it will remain in your system. Knowing about these detection windows is crucial for several reasons, including drug testing, safety, and making educated decisions about substance use.
What is Ecstasy or MDMA?
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) is a synthetic drug with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. It was first created in the early 1900s as a possible appetite suppressant, but its euphoric and empathogenic effects led to its widespread use as a recreational drug. In pill form, MDMA is commonly referred to as “ecstasy” or “Molly” and is known for its ability to heighten sensory experiences, foster feelings of emotional closeness, and boost energy.
Serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine are just some of the neurotransmitters that are released in response to an MDMA dose. Users often report feelings of euphoria, empathy, and heightened sensory perception, all of which can be attributed to the chemical cocktail they consume. Aside from the potential short- and long-term adverse effects on brain function and mental health, MDMA also carries several other risks.
Consumption of MDMA should be considered with the same level of caution as that given to any other substance. Putting one’s health and safety first is a responsibility that must not be ignored.
MDMA Drug Tests
Drug tests for MDMA are used to determine whether or not MDMA or its metabolites are present in a person’s body. Employment screenings, parole and probation regulations, and other situations requiring drug use monitoring frequently call for administering such tests.
The most typical kinds of drug tests for MDMA are:
- The urine test is the gold standard for detecting MDMA use. Depending on the individual’s metabolism, the frequency of use, and the dosage taken, the drug can be detected in the urine for up to four days after use.
- The window of time that blood tests can detect MDMA use is shorter than that of urine tests. However, because of the shorter detection period, they occur less frequently.
- Similarly to blood tests, saliva tests can detect MDMA for up to 48 hours after use.
- One such test is the hair follicle test, which can detect MDMA use for up to 90 days after use. However, MDMA detection via hair tests is not as common.
The reliability of MDMA drug tests varies from test to test and person to person. Using reputable testing facilities is essential for accurate results, as false positives and negatives can occur.
How Long Does Molly Stay in Your Urine?
The amount of time that molly (MDMA) remains in your urine depends on several factors, such as your metabolism, how often you use it, how much you take, and how well you keep yourself hydrated. Molly can be detected in the urine for about 1-4 days after use.
Even in one-time or infrequent users, molly can be detected in urine for up to two days. Those who use the drug more frequently or at higher doses may have traces of it in their systems for 3-4 days.
How Long Does Molly Stay in Your Blood?
A few hours to several days is the typical half-life of molly in the blood. Once the effects have worn off, the MDMA in your system will begin to decrease. Up to 24 hours after ingestion, the drug is usually detectable in the blood.
Factors like age, weight, liver function, and hydration level can affect the window of opportunity for detecting MDMA in the blood. The ability to detect MDMA at low concentrations may also be affected by the varying sensitivities of specialized drug tests.
How Long Does Molly Stay in Your Saliva?
The detection of MDMA (molly) in saliva can provide valuable information for drug testing purposes. After consuming MDMA, it can be detected in saliva relatively quickly, usually within 20 to 60 minutes, and remains detectable after ingestion.
The detection window for MDMA in saliva typically ranges from 1 to 2 days. However, individual factors like metabolism and dosage can influence detection duration.
Saliva drug tests are often used because they are non-invasive and can provide rapid results. However, the sensitivity of these tests can vary, affecting the ability to detect MDMA at lower concentrations.
Skip To:
Learn More:
- MDA vs MDMA, What’s The Difference?
- Dose of MDMA, Effects of MDMA Overdose
- How Long Does Molly Last? Withdrawal Side Effects, Risks, & Treatment Options for MDMA / Ecstasy
- What is MDMA
- Is Molly Meth? What is the Difference Between Molly vs Meth?
- How To Take Molly Safely? The Facts of Molly Addiction
Body Fluid/Part | Approximate Detection Time |
MDMA in Urine | 1-4 days |
MDMA in Blood | 1-2 days |
MDMA in Saliva | 1-2 days |
MDMA in Hair | Up to 90 days |
MDMA Fact Sheet
What is Molly? Molly, also known as MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine), is a synthetic drug classified as a stimulant and empathogen. It is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens.
Forms of Molly: Molly is typically found in colorful tablets, capsules, or powder. It is commonly ingested orally, but some users may crush and snort it or dissolve it in liquid and inject it.
Effects of Molly: Molly induces euphoria, increased sociability, emotional openness, and empathy. Users often experience heightened sensory perception and a distorted sense of time.
Potential Risks and Dangers:
- Dehydration and overheating due to increased physical activity and loss of body fluids.
- Cardiovascular issues, including increased heart rate and blood pressure.
- Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by elevated serotonin levels.
- Cognitive impairments, such as memory and attention problems.
- Mood swings, anxiety, and depression during and after use (comedown).
- Risk of engaging in risky behaviors or dangerous activities.
Addictive Potential: Molly is psychologically addictive, with repeated use leading to tolerance and compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Physical dependence is less common.
Long-Term Health Consequences: Chronic use of Molly may lead to cognitive deficits, mood disorders, and potential damage to serotonin-producing neurons in the brain.
Legal Status: Molly is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, making it illegal to produce, possess, or distribute.
Harm Reduction Strategies:
- Avoid mixing Molly with other substances, especially alcohol or other drugs.
- Stay hydrated, but avoid excessive water intake to prevent hyponatremia.
- Take breaks between use to allow the body to recover.
- Test substances for purity to reduce the risk of consuming adulterated or contaminated drugs.
Treatment Options: If struggling with Molly’s use or addiction, seeking professional help is crucial. Treatment options include behavioral therapies, counseling, support groups, and comprehensive addiction treatment programs.
Get Your Life Back
Find Hope & Recovery. Get Safe Comfortable Detox, Addiction Rehab & Mental Health Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Care at the We Level Up Treatment Centers Network.
Hotline (877) 378-4154MDMA Addiction Statistics
The most recent information shows that MDMA (Molly) is a popular recreational drug. About 1.4 million people in the United States aged 12 or older said they used it in the past year. It is most common among teens and young adults. In the same period, about 4.7% of 12th graders used it. MDMA is psychologically addicting, and heavy and regular use can lead to drug-seeking habits and cravings.
Even though men are more likely to become addicted to MDMA, both men and women can become addicted. Polydrug use, when MDMA is used with other drugs, is also daily and can increase the risks of MDMA use.
1.4 million
people aged 12 or older reported using MDMA in the past year.
Source: NSDUH
4.7%
Of 12th graders have been using MDMA in the past year.
Source: NSDUH
1.4%
of 8th graders have been using MDMA in the past year.
Source: NSDUH
Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.
Searching for Accredited Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers Near You? Or Mental Health Support?
Even if you have failed previously, relapsed, or are in a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. Call us when you feel ready or want someone to speak to about therapy alternatives to change your life. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.
FREE Addiction Hotline – Call 24/7MDMA Test Kits
Samples can be tested for the presence of MDMA and other substances with the help of MDMA test kits. Ecstasy pills and MDMA powder are often tested with these kits to ensure their legitimacy and purity. They detect the presence of MDMA by reacting with specific drug components to produce a color change.
The most widely used MDMA test kits are the Marquis, Mecke, and Mandelin reagents, but there are others. Different test kits can reveal different information about a sample depending on what substances they’re designed to detect. The Marquis reagent, for instance, is frequently used to detect the presence of MDMA, and its reaction is typically a dark purple-to-black color. Mecke and Mandelin reagents can be used to distinguish MDMA from other substances further and reveal more about the makeup of the sample.
Although MDMA test kits help detect the presence of the drug, they do not reveal information about the drug’s potency or any impurities. In addition, test kits cannot ensure the sample’s security or purity. Because of this, taking precautions and considering employing a range of harm reduction strategies, such as starting low and testing the substance in small amounts, is essential.
Comfortable Facilities & Amenities
High-Quality Addiction & Mental Health Rehabilitation Treatment
Rehab Centers TourRenowned Addiction Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient rehab programs vary.
Addiction Helpline (877) 378-4154Proven recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:
15+
Years of Unified Experience
100s
5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers
10K
Recovery Success Stories Across Our Network
- Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
- Onsite Medical Detox Center
- Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
- Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
- Coaching, Recovery & Personal Development Events
MDMA Side-Effects
The effects of MDMA, better known as ecstasy or molly, can be temporary and permanent. Factors such as dosage, frequency of use, individual tolerance, and general health can influence the severity and occurrence of these side effects. Common MDMA-related side effects include:
Short-term side effects:
- Euphoria: A sense of intense happiness and well-being.
- Increased energy: Feeling more alert and active.
- Enhanced empathy: Heightened feelings of emotional connection with others.
- Dilated pupils: Pupil size increases due to MDMA’s impact on the nervous system.
- Jaw clenching and teeth grinding: Commonly known as “gurning.”
- Dehydration: MDMA can increase body temperature and sweating, potentially causing dehydration.
- Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience stomach discomfort and vomiting.
- Anxiety and agitation: In some cases, MDMA can lead to feelings of nervousness and restlessness.
- Distorted perception of time and space: The drug may alter one’s sense of time and surroundings.
- Chills and sweating: Changes in body temperature can lead to chills or excessive sweating.
Long-term side effects:
- Memory and cognitive issues: MDMA has been associated with memory and concentration problems with prolonged use.
- Emotional changes: Some individuals may experience mood swings, depression, or anxiety after using MDMA.
- Sleep disturbances: Regular MDMA use may disrupt sleep patterns and lead to insomnia.
- Tolerance and dependence: Frequent use can lead to the need for higher doses to achieve the same effects and potential psychological dependence on the drug.
- Neurotoxicity: Prolonged MDMA use has been linked to potential damage to brain cells and the serotonin system.
World-class, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Effective Addiction & Mental Health Programs. Complete Behavioral Health Inpatient Rehab, Detox plus Co-occuring Disorders Therapy.
CALL (877) 378-4154End the Addiction Pain. End the Emotional Rollercoaster. Get Your Life Back. Start Drug, Alcohol & Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Treatment Now. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Substance Abuse Specialists Who Understand Addiction & Mental Health Recovery & Know How to Help.
Treatment Options for MDMA Addiction
Having access to MDMA addiction treatment is critical for assisting individuals in breaking their addiction and moving on to a life that is healthier and drug-free. Addiction treatment facilities like We Level Up NJ can help those struggling with MDMA dependency. Addiction to MDMA can be treated in some ways.
- Detoxification: The first step in addiction treatment is often detoxification, which helps the individual safely withdraw from MDMA while managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
- Inpatient Rehabilitation: Inpatient rehab provides a structured and supportive environment where individuals can receive intensive therapy and counseling to address the root causes of their addiction.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a common therapeutic approach that helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with drug use.
- Group Therapy: Group therapy sessions provide a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, learn from others, and receive encouragement throughout their recovery journey.
- Family Therapy: Involving the family in therapy can be beneficial to address family dynamics and support the individual’s recovery process.
- Support Groups: Participating in support groups, like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide ongoing support and camaraderie with others in recovery.
- Holistic Therapies: Some addiction treatment centers offer holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy, which can help promote overall well-being during the recovery process.
Experience Transformative Recovery at the We Level Up Treatment Center.
See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.
Start a New Life
Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up treatment center network delivers various recovery programs at each treatment facility. Call to learn more.
- Personalized Care
- Caring Accountable Staff
- Comfortable Amenities
- Licensed & Accredited
- Renowned w/ 5-Star Reviews
We’ll Call You
Popular How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System FAQ
-
Does Molly show up on drug tests?
Yes, the main active ingredient in Molly, which is MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine), can show up on drug tests. MDMA can be detected in various drug tests, including urine, blood, saliva, and hair tests.
Watch How He Turned Around His Life From Drug Addiction
“Hi, my name is Sean; I have been clean since September 26, 2014. I remember and reflect on loneliness, despair, and constant anxiety-ridden behavior. I was left to my own devices and looking to the left and right.
And not having anybody to call or talk to. I know it’s cliche; I know a lot of people say it. I would have sold myself extremely short of my life today. If I had tied myself to the material items, I wouldn’t have realized the life I wanted. And I’m forever grateful for the guidance I received.”
Search We Level Up NJ How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System? How Long Does Molly Stay in Your Urine, Blood, and Saliva? & Mental Health Topics & Resources
Sources
- Drug Enforcement Administration. (2020). Drug fact sheet: Ecstasy/MDMA. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Papaseit, E., Pérez-Mañá, C., Mateus, J. A., Pujadas, M., Fonseca, F., Torrens, M…& Farré, M. (2016). Human pharmacology of mephedrone in comparison with MDMA. Neuropsychopharmacology, 41(11), 2704–2713. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Hallare, J. & Gerriets, V. (2021, August 23). Half Life. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Kalant, H. (2001). The pharmacology and toxicology of “ecstasy” (MDMA) and related drugs. CMAJ, 165(7), 917–928. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Barnes, A. J., Scheidweiler, K. B., Kolbrich-Spargo, E. A., Gorelick, D. A., Goodwin, R. S., & Huestis, M. A. (2011). MDMA and metabolite disposition in expectorated oral fluid after controlled oral MDMA administration. Therapeutic drug monitoring, 33(5), 602–608. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Schwaninger, A. E., Meyer, M. R., Barnes, A. J., Kolbrich-Spargo, E. A., Gorelick, D. A., Goodwin, R. S…& Maurer, H. H. (2011). Urinary excretion kinetics of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) and its phase I and phase II metabolites in humans following controlled MDMA administration. Clinical chemistry, 57(12), 1748–1756. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Palamar, J. J., Salomone, A., Gerace, E., Di Corcia, D., Vincenti, M., & Cleland, C. M. (2017). Hair testing to assess both known and unknown use of drugs amongst ecstasy users in the electronic dance music scene. The International journal on drug policy, 48, 91–98. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2006). Substance abuse: clinical issues in intensive outpatient treatment. (Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series, No. 47.) Appendix B. Urine collection and testing procedures and alternative methods for monitoring drug use. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- de la Torre, R., Yubero-Lahoz, S., Pardo-Lozano, R., & Farré, M. (2012). MDMA, methamphetamine, and CYP2D6 pharmacogenetics: what is clinically relevant? . Frontiers in genetics, 3, 235. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2015). Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series, No. 45. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 15-4131. Rockville, MD: Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. Learn More: How long does MDMA stay in your system?
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020, June). MDMA (ecstasy/molly) DrugFacts.