Hip-hop music influencing more African-Americans to try ‘Molly’

More rap artists are talking about molly, which is the powder or crystal form of ecstasy, and that’s having a big impact on Black listeners. Molly is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant and hallucinogenic. While research has shown messages in hip-hop music can influence the use of marijuana and alcohol, no research has looked specifically at whether hip-hop is actually influencing some to try molly.

In a study published in the Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse, researchers surveyed African American young adults who’ve tried molly, and found 82% said hip-hop music influenced their decision to try it. There is an abundance of song lyrics that glorify the drug, describing it as a way to party and lower sexual inhibitions.

“Molly, although not as dangerous as opioids, has been linked to psychiatric problems, sexual risk taking and adverse health outcomes like seizures, irregular heartbeat, hyperthermia and even death,” said lead author Khary Rigg, PhD, professor of mental health law and…

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