the “three month rule” for MDMA gets repeated so often it sounds like folk wisdom. it’s not. it’s based on actual serotonin recovery timelines.
what MDMA does to your brain
MDMA causes a massive release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. the serotonin dump is the big one. after a session, your serotonin levels are depleted. the transporter proteins that move serotonin around are also damaged.
recovery timeline
research shows serotonin markers return to baseline in most people after 6-12 weeks. that’s where the three month recommendation comes from. it’s not a magic number. it’s the minimum recovery window supported by evidence.
what happens when you don’t wait
- each successive roll with insufficient recovery is less effective (tolerance)
- the comedowns get worse and longer
- long-term: potential persistent changes in serotonin function
- increased risk of depression and anxiety that can last months
supplements that actually help
- 5-HTP (after, never before or during) helps rebuild serotonin
- NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) shows neuroprotective effects
- magnesium reduces jaw clenching and neurotoxicity markers
- vitamin C and E as antioxidants during
the bottom line
three months minimum. longer is better. your brain isn’t a battery you can fast-charge.