National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

What class of drug is MDMA categorized as?

1. Schedule II stimulant

2. Schedule I hallucinogen

3. Schedule III depressant

4. Schedule IV hallucinogen

The correct answer is: Schedule I hallucinogen

MDMA, commonly known as "Ecstasy" or "Molly," is categorized as a Schedule I hallucinogen. This classification indicates that it is considered to have a high potential for abuse and does not have accepted medical use in the United States. Schedule I substances are acknowledged by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to be unsafe and lacking in accepted medical therapies, which underscores the risks associated with their use. MDMA has psychoactive effects that can alter perception, mood, and cognition, aligning it closely with other hallucinogens. It produces feelings of euphoria, increased empathy, and enhanced sensory perception. As a result, it is often associated with recreational use in party settings where it impacts sensory experiences. In contrast, other classifications presented in the question do not accurately describe MDMA’s properties or legal status. For instance, being categorized as a Schedule II stimulant would imply it has recognized medical uses and a different profile of effects, which does not apply to MDMA. Similarly, being classified as a Schedule III depressant or Schedule IV hallucinogen would misrepresent its primary function as a psychoactive hallucinogenic compound rather than a depressant.