Have You Met Molly?

Have You Met Molly? Let me introduce you.

A recent drug choice among teens is spreading quickly. Most parents are unaware that even exist. The drug nicknamed “Molly,” is a crystal form of MDMA. MDMA is the chemical used in making the drug Ecstasy. The drug produces feelings of increased energy, euphoria, emotional warmth, and empathy towards others. It also distorts sensory and time perception. Most commonly used in clubs and concerts, Molly gives more energy with less fear.

Because Molly is often mixed up, there is significant danger. The chemicals used to make the synthetic drug often have different combinations of substances that can have unknown affect. Molly may make you hyper, but it can also lead to muscle cramping, nausea, blurred vision, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. In some cases there were hyperthermia and death. MDMA can have side effects of depression that can last for several days or weeks. Worst of all, high doses of MDMA can create seizures and heart failure that can be seen years later.

Molly is selling from $8 to25 a pill, and teens and adults ages 18-29 are becoming addicted to it. Emergency visits related to Ecstasy have increased nearly 123% from 2004 to 2009.

As a parent, look for signs of drug abuse in your children. Having an open line of communication between parents and children can reduce and prevent underage substance abuse. And if your child says they need to go meet Molly, you should ask to meet her and see her ID.