MDMA can stay in a person’s system for about 40 hours after the last instance of drug use. Drug testing methods can detect MDMA use for about 3 days after last use.
MDMA is a popular party drug that can cause pleasure, increased sociability, and mild hallucinogenic effects. It is commonly known as ecstasy or molly. Regardless of form, MDMA is a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, with no approved medical uses.
A positive drug test for MDMA may be indicative of recent MDMA use, or a long-term MDMA addiction. A healthcare provider may refer you to a substance use disorder treatment program to address potential illicit drug issues.
Drug Testing & Detection Times For MDMA Use
Drug tests for ecstasy abuse may test for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, the active ingredient of MDMA, or its metabolites (unique components).
MDMA is broken down by the body into 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyamphetamine (HMA), and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymethamphetamine (HMMA) by the body.
These metabolites may appear on drug tests as indicators of recent MDMA ingestion.
Urine Test
Urine tests can detect MDMA and its metabolites for an average of 3 days after the last dose. However, some studies have reported MDMA metabolites in urine up to 1 week after the last dose.
Urine tests may be a common testing method due to its relative accuracy and convenience. However, it can be difficult for a healthcare provider to conduct a urine test outside of a medical setting.
Saliva Test
MDMA and its metabolites can be detected in oral fluid for about 2 days after the last dose. Some studies have reported MDMA metabolites in saliva up to 3 days after the last dose.
Saliva tests can be non-invasive compared to other testing methods. Patients may be instructed to avoid eating or drinking shortly before the test to avoid inconclusive results.
Blood Test
Blood tests can detect MDMA use for about 3 days after the last use.
Blood tests may be performed on hospitalized patients exhibiting side effects of MDMA use, such as high body temperature, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, a loss of consciousness, hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood), and seizures.
Hair Test
MDMA and its metabolites can remain in hair follicles for about 90 days after the last dose. Hair tests can have the longest detection window of the common drug testing methods, due to substances remaining in hair as it grows out.
Half-Life Of MDMA
Half-life is the length of time it takes for a substance to decrease to half of its peak concentration. Half-life can be useful in determining when a drug leaves a person’s system.
After about five half-life cycles, most drugs will be virtually eliminated from the body.
The half-life of MDMA is about 8 hours on average. An average dose of MDMA will be virtually eliminated from the body about 40 hours after it is taken.
However, the effects of MDMA, such as involuntary jaw clenching and increased body temperature, can last for about 3 hours on average.
The elimination time of MDMA may vary depending on a person’s history of substance use, their body fat, and other factors.
Treatment Options For Synthetic Drug Abuse
Synthetic club drugs such as MDMA can cause serious health conditions in both the short-term and long-term. A positive test for MDMA use can be the first step towards addressing a high-risk pattern of drug use.
Professional treatment for MDMA abuse may involve medical detox, management of withdrawal symptoms, therapy, mental health services, support groups and other options.
To find out if our outpatient substance abuse treatment program works for you or your loved one, please contact Northeast Addictions Treatment Center today.
Sources
Written by
Northeast Addition Editorial Team
©2023 Northeast Addition Center | All Rights Reserved
This page does not provide medical advice.
