Mixing Cocaine & MDMA (Ecstasy) | Effects & Dangers

Mixing cocaine and MDMA can cause a number of short- and long-term side effects, including impairment, hypertension, permanent organ damage, drug addiction, and other risks.

Cocaine and MDMA are popular drugs at raves, dance parties, and music festivals. Cocaine is considered a stimulant, while MDMA (or ecstasy) is in a specific class of stimulants known as amphetamines.

Since both drugs are illegal, the best way to practice responsible drug use is by not taking cocaine or MDMA at all. If you or a peer do mix cocaine and MDMA, knowing the risks can go a long way in harm reduction.

Effects Of Mixing MDMA & Cocaine

MDMA and cocaine both increase activity in your brain and nervous system. Both illicit drugs increase dopamine levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter that controls motivation, reward, appetite, sleeping patterns, and more.

MDMA affects serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, two more essential neurotransmitters. Polydrug abuse that involves two uppers can enhance the adverse effects of each individual drug, while adding on unwanted interactions. 

While there are few studies on simultaneous cocaine and MDMA use in humans, studies have been done on mixing these drugs in animals. These studies suggest chemical imbalances in the brain, especially with serotonin and dopamine.

Short-Term Side Effects

Short-term side effects of mixing ecstasy and cocaine may include:

• dangerously high body temperature (hyperthermia)
• increased heart rate
• increased blood pressure
• ​impairment
• organ damage
• paranoia
• muscle twitches

Long-Term Side Effects

Long-term effects of cocaine and MDMA may be enhanced when they are used together. These effects may include:

• loss of smell
• sleeping problems
• chronic nosebleeds
• memory problems
• irritability
• anxiety

Dangers Of Mixing Cocaine & MDMA

Along with severe immediate side effects, mixing cocaine & MDMA can pose a serious risk to your physical and mental health.

Drug Overdose

Compared to other cocaine combinations, like heroin or alcohol, cocaine and MDMA overdoses are less documented. 

However, mixing cocaine and MDMA can make it easier to lose track of the concentration of each drug. Due to cocaine’s potency, it does not take a large amount to overdose on cocaine.

Signs of a cocaine overdose may include:

• cardiac arrest
• difficulty breathing
• hallucinations
• seizures

Substance Use Disorder

Using cocaine on its own already puts you at risk for cocaine addiction. MDMA is believed to be less addictive than cocaine on its own, but taking both drugs together can reinforce unhealthy habits and change the actual chemistry in your brain.

Long-term cocaine use can change the reward receptors in your brain, making you physically dependent on the drug. While there is little evidence that MDMA does the same, mixing cocaine and MDMA will likely not improve your outlook when for long-term substance use disorders.

Cocaine and MDMA may cause withdrawal symptoms such as:

• fatigue
• depression
• trouble thinking or concentrating
• mental health problems

Polysubstance Abuse Treatment

Long-term polydrug abuse is likely a sign of a substance use disorder. Substance use disorders are serious mental health problems that may require professional treatment.

Treating cocaine addiction often involves cognitive behavioral therapy and safe, controlled environments for recovery. Treating the effects of MDMA are less well-defined, but likely involves therapy and counseling.

To find the best treatment options for yourself or your loved one, please contact us today.