Polydrug abuse refers to the concurrent use of two or more substances. This practice is adopted by individuals for various motivations, with the predominant objective being the attainment of a heightened state of euphoria. A frequently observed combination among those who use recreational drugs includes MDMA and weed (cannabis). However, there exist potential hazards associated with the simultaneous consumption of these intoxicating substances. To mitigate the occurrence of adverse incidents, the drug experts at our Florida rehab delve into the risks associated with the co-administration of ecstasy and marijuana.
Ecstasy vs. Weed: What Are They?
The drug experts at our Pompano Beach rehab are delving into the pharmacological properties and effects of two commonly used psychoactive substances: MDMA, commonly referred to as ecstasy, and cannabis, often referred to as weed. To better understand the risks of mixing ecstasy and weed, we’re sharing more about their chemical structures, mechanisms of action, and side effects.
Side Effects of Marijuana
Marijuana is made up of dried leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis plants. The two active components in marijuana are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive component of weed that produces the high people experience.
CBD serves almost as a balance for the effects of THC by producing feelings of relaxation and pain reduction. Although many people believe that marijuana is harmless, this isn’t entirely true. Too much THC can cause scary and unpredictable mind-altering effects, including psychosis.
Some side effects of marijuana use include:
- Auditory, visual, or tactile hallucinations
- Altered perception of time
- Altered sense of taste, smell, and sight
- Mood changes
- Euphoria
- Paranoia or anxiety
- Depression
- Memory problems
Long-term marijuana use can lead to psychological dependence, which is marked by a series of uncomfortable and often distressing withdrawal symptoms. Chronic use of weed also increases an individual’s risk of experiencing sexual dysfunction and anhedonia, which is the inability to feel pleasure.
Side Effects of Ecstasy
Ecstasy, also referred to as MDMA or molly, is a synthetic, mind-altering drug that affects a person’s perception of time and their surroundings. It’s similar to both hallucinogens and stimulants in that it increases energy while distorting perception.
Ecstasy works by targeting three neurotransmitters: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. All three play important roles in regulating mood and heart rate, sleep, sexual arousal, regulating blood pressure, and digestion, to say the least. While it was initially popular in nightclubs and raves, it has now become a common drug to use in combination with other substances like marijuana.
Some common side effects of MDMA include:
- Blurred vision
- Increased energy
- Increased heart rate
- Irritability
- Impulsiveness and aggression
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Decreased libido or interest in sexual activity
- Problems with memory
Depending on the dose, the effects of ecstasy can last between three to six hours. Many MDMA users tend to take several doses back-to-back, however, making the symptoms and duration of symptoms unpredictable.
Can You Mix MDMA and Weed?
There are several reasons why you shouldn’t mix weed and MDMA. When MDMA and cannabis are used together, it can enhance the effects of both substances. For some users, this may lead to an intensified sense of euphoria, altered perception, and altered sensory experiences.
However, there are inherent risks involved, such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature, which can be exacerbated when these substances are combined. Moreover, mixing weed and ecstasy may lead to impaired judgment, making it difficult to assess one's own physical and mental state.
It is essential to note that individual responses to this combination can vary significantly, and adverse effects, including anxiety, paranoia, or cognitive impairment, may occur. The combination may also have negative consequences on memory and cognitive function.
Moreover, dehydration and overheating are common effects of MDMA use, and marijuana can further impair the body's ability to regulate temperature. This combination could increase the risk of severe adverse events, such as hyperthermia and heat stroke.
The effects of mixing MDMA and weed include:
- Psychosis (extreme episodes of anxiety and paranoia)
- Increased core body temperature
- Decrease in memory function (difficulties remembering things or recalling past events)
- Decrease in serotonin levels of the brain, increasing chances of mental illness
- Inhibition of neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA
- Weakened immune system
- Decrease in cognitive ability (learning, speech, memory)
What happens when you mix weed and ecstasy also depends on how much each is taken. Because they each cause their own set of symptoms, combining the two can cause unpredictable reactions.
Although some individuals may choose to mix MDMA and weed, it is crucial to recognize that this practice can carry significant health risks. The effects and safety of this combination are highly unpredictable and may lead to undesirable consequences.
Can Weed Be Laced With MDMA?
Yes, weed can be laced or contaminated with MDMA or other substances. This can occur in illicit drug markets where the purity and quality of substances are not regulated. When marijuana is intentionally adulterated or “cut” with other drugs, such as MDMA, it is typically done to enhance the effects of the cannabis or to deceive consumers.
Lacing weed with MDMA may have serious health implications, as it can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects, especially if the user is unaware of the presence of MDMA. As we previously mentioned, the combined use of these two substances can result in a complex set of effects, including altered perception, mood changes, and potential risks to physical health.
Because cannabis is legal in certain states, consumers should be cautious when obtaining cannabis from unregulated sources, as there is a risk of contamination or adulteration with various substances, not just MDMA. For instance, fentanyl- and heroin-laced weed have become more popular in the illegal drug market as opioid abuse persists in the U.S.
Although our Pompano rehab center discourages substance use of any kind, weed is legal in certain areas, and if someone were to use it legally, always encourage safe use. If you’re going to use weed, obtain it from legal and reputable sources, such as licensed dispensaries, where product quality and safety standards are enforced.
Additionally, individuals should be aware of the signs of adulteration and consider using drug testing kits to verify the contents of any substances they obtain from unregulated sources. This proactive approach can help mitigate potential risks associated with laced or contaminated marijuana.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, Banyan Treatment Centers Pompano is here to help. Call Banyan today at 888-280-4763 for more information about our Florida mental health services or addiction treatment programs.
