Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is a psychoactive drug that alters mood and perception. It increases the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and other important functions. It helps transmit signals between nerve cells and contributes to feelings of well-being.
Dopamine is another neurotransmitter involved in reward-motivated behavior and pleasure sensations. It plays a role in regulating movement, motivation, reinforcement learning, and cognitive processes.
Norepinephrine is a stress hormone and neurotransmitter that helps control alertness and arousal. It is involved in the "fight or flight" response to stressful situations.