Photo: wsbtv.com
We sat down with Jerry Otero, former parent support specialist at the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids’s Parents Toll-Free Helpline, to find out what “Molly” is and what it means for kids and parents.
Q: What is Molly?
A: “Molly,” is the powder or crystal form of MDMA, which is the chemical used in Ecstasy. Some claim that Molly is less dangerous than other illegal drugs because it’s not physically addictive, more pure than other forms of ecstasy and will not cause cognitive impairment as it doesn’t kill brain cells. The reality, however, is that the use of Molly – a stimulant drug – comes with serious health risks. The DEA notes that it can cause confusion, anxiety, depression, paranoia, sleep problems and drug craving.
Q: What are some of the health risks for my child?
A: Health risks can include anything from involuntary teeth clenching, a loss of inhibitions, transfixion on sights and sounds, nausea, blurred vision and chills and/or sweating. More serious risks can even include increased heart rate and blood pressure and seizures.
According to CNN, Molly has been a popular drug at music festivals this year. This is perhaps the most hazardous of settings, because when combined with the hot crowded conditions, intake of MDMA can lead to severe dehydration and dramatic increases in body temperature. This, in turn, can lead to muscle breakdown and kidney, liver and cardiovascular failure.
An additional risk of taking Molly is the potential of it being “cut” or mixed with other harmful substances by someone else, despite claims of it being pure.
I advise parents to know the facts, talk with their kids and don’t take the use of Molly lightly.
Related Content:
“Molly,” Powder or Crystal Form of MDMA, is Popular at Music Festivals
Experts: People Who Think They Are Taking “Molly” Don’t Know What They’re Getting