Cocaine has ruined countless lives and families worldwide.
In the United States alone, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Cocaine-related overdose deaths in the U.S. increased by 34% from 2019 to 2020. As a result, helping people to understand and overcome cocaine addiction has become a national health priority.
Whether you or a loved one are struggling with cocaine use or facing challenges related to overcoming cocaine addiction, this article provides essential information that can guide you through the recovery and rehabilitative process.
But before we cover the addiction and recovery options, let’s first examine the properties of cocaine, how it is consumed, and the mental and physiological health risks associated with the drug
How did Cocaine Get Popularized?
In the past, cocaine was the drug of choice among upwardly mobile young professionals but lost favor among this crowd when the drug’s genuinely addictive and destructive qualities fully surfaced.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a derivative concentrate of crack cocaine. Crack cocaine is far more addictive and fatal. However, both the concentrated form of cocaine (rock cocaine) and its derivative (powdery cocaine) are dangerously addictive substances.
Cocaine goes by the following names:
- Coke
- Rock
- Flake
- Snow
- Blow
How is Cocaine Taken?
Cocaine can be smoked, inhaled, and injected directly into the bloodstream, but the most common drug intake is sniffed through the nose.
Why is Cocaine So Addictive?
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Cocaine is an intense and euphoria-producing stimulant with highly addictive properties.
Cocaine can significantly impact brain function by artificially interfering with the normal chemical relationship between neurotransmitters and dopamine, which prevents the natural uptake of dopamine from being reabsorbed by the brain.
It is the lack of reabsorption of dopamine by the brain that triggers anxiety, confusion, and depression. As a result, people using cocaine need more to achieve the same high, leading to deeper levels of drug addiction.
With repeated use, the brain becomes less responsive to natural rewards, making it harder for an individual to feel pleasure without the drug.
Over time, individuals need more cocaine to achieve the same high, trapping them in a vicious cycle of addiction.
What Are the Signs of Cocaine Addiction?
Recognizing the signs of a cocaine addiction is critically important in obtaining timely intervention. While some individuals may try to hide their drug use, there are clear behavioral, psychological, and physical indicators of cocaine use.
Behavioral and Psychological Signs: Sudden changes in behavior include over-activity, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, secrecy, panic and confusion, burnout, and severe anxiety
Physical Signs: Dilated pupils, frequent nosebleeds, excessive sniffling or a runny nose, rapid weight loss, irregular heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, and lack of appetite.
What are the Short and Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Use?
According to NIDA’s Fact Sheet On Short-Term Use of Cocaine:
- Cocaine’s short-term effects appear almost immediately. Small amounts of cocaine usually make people feel euphoric, energetic, talkative, and mentally alert. The drug can also temporarily decrease the need for food and sleep.
- The duration of cocaine’s euphoric effects depends on how it is used. Snorting cocaine produces a relatively slow onset of the high, lasting 15 to 30 minutes. In contrast, smoking cocaine has a more immediate impact but may last only 5 to 10 minutes.
- Absorption of large amounts of cocaine intensifies the high but can also lead to erratic and violent behavior. Some people who use cocaine report feelings of restlessness, irritability, anxiety, panic, and paranoia. They may also experience tremors, vertigo, and muscle twitches.
According to NIDA’s Fact Sheet On Long Term Use of Cocaine:
- Long-term use of cocaine has led to a unique respiratory syndrome, and chronic snorting of cocaine has led to the erosion of the upper nasal cavity.
- Chronic use of cocaine reduces blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to tears and ulcerations. Long-term use can cause significant weight loss and malnourishment.
- In addition to the increased risk for stroke and seizures, other neurological problems can occur with long-term cocaine use.There have been reports of bleeding within the brain and balloon-like bulges in the walls of cerebral blood vessels.
- Movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, may also occur after many years of cocaine use. Generally, studies suggest that a wide range of cognitive functions are impaired with long-term cocaine use—such as sustaining attention, impulse inhibition, memory, making decisions involving rewards or punishments, and performing motor tasks.
How to Stop Cocaine Addiction
Stopping cocaine addiction is challenging, but it is possible with the right resources and support. The first step is acknowledging the problem and seeking professional help.
Here are key steps to take:
- Seek a Treatment Program: Whether inpatient care or outpatient care, a structured treatment program can provide medical supervision and therapy to manage the withdrawal symptoms.
- Manage Withdrawal Symptoms: As discussed earlier, cocaine withdrawal symptoms can be difficult to handle. Medical supervision and support from a mutual support group can make the process safer and more manageable.
- Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and contingency management can help individuals change their thought patterns and behaviors to prevent relapse.
- Long-Term Support: Recovery doesn’t end after detox. Ongoing therapy, support group involvement, and a healthy lifestyle will all contribute to achieving long-term recovery.
Each individual’s journey to quit cocaine will be unique, but with the right support system, recovery is within reach
Cocaine Addiction And Recovery Options
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) warns that the cycle of cocaine addiction can soon take over a person’s life, affecting everything from physical health to relationships and mental well-being.
The term, getting clean means an addict has learned how to stop using drugs and integrate sobriety into everyday life.
Both detoxification of the patient and having the patient remain drug-free are what cocaine addiction treatment centers hope to deliver to their cocaine-addicted patients.
Overcoming cocaine addiction means to rid oneself of dangerous toxins from the inside out. If one is heavily addicted to cocaine, abrupt and sudden cessation of the drug will result in profound interference with the person’s central nervous system.
Cocaine Addiction Recovery Centers
Cocaine addiction has both mental and physical components. Therefore, detoxification from cocaine is much more problematic and dangerous than other drugs. Consequently, it becomes necessary to develop a therapeutic strategy during the patient’s stay and to continue their treatment on an outpatient basis.
Cocaine recovery and detoxification centers provide inpatient, outpatient, and residential treatment programs. Residential treatment programs have been highly influential in establishing a controlled environment as the patient undergoes detoxification, recovery, re-education, and normalization.
The Cost of Inpatient Treatment
The average cost of inpatient treatment can run as high as $5,000/week. Most health insurance companies do not cover treatment for cocaine addiction. Some private detox centers have financing available or will be able to put you in contact with an available lender.
Most cocaine detox programs are residential or part of an extended outpatient treatment and recovery facility. In either case, you will want to ensure the local program you choose is operated by state-accredited, licensed, and professionally trained mental health professionals.
New Approaches to Treatment and Recovery
Over the past few years, there have been significant strides in detoxification programs and therapies for people addicted to cocaine.
Most of these therapies are biochemical and claim to repress the neural interactions within the brain that cause addictive and impulsive cravings. Some of these services claim they can reach complete detoxification and make someone addicted accessible in a matter of days rather than weeks or months.
Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
Quitting cocaine is extremely difficult. Once a person becomes dependent on the drug, they will experience a range of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.
Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include intense cravings, fatigue, irritability, and depression. While cocaine withdrawal doesn’t typically cause dangerous physical symptoms like alcohol or opioid withdrawal, the mental health challenges can be overwhelming.
Withdrawal symptoms may vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the addiction, the length of drug use, and the individual’s overall physical health.
Statistic: The largest age group at risk for cocaine abuse is adults between 18 and 25 years of age.
Cocaine Addiction Recovery Options
Getting clean means an addict has learned how to stop using drugs and integrate sobriety into everyday life. Both detoxification of the patient and having the patient remain drug-free are what cocaine addiction treatment centers promise to deliver.
Detoxification means to rid oneself of dangerous toxins from the inside out. If one is heavily addicted to cocaine, abrupt and sudden cessation of the drug use will commonly result in profound interference with the person’s central nervous system. The result is what physicians refer to as cocaine withdrawal syndrome.
Detoxification
Cocaine addiction has both mental and physical components. Therefore, detoxification from cocaine is much more problematic and dangerous than other drugs. Consequently, it becomes necessary to design a therapeutic strategy during the patient’s stay with the center so that the patient will continue their treatment on an outpatient basis.
Cocaine recovery and detoxification centers provide inpatient, outpatient, and residential treatment programs. Residential treatment programs have been highly influential in establishing a controlled environment as the patient undergoes detoxification, recovery, re-education, and normalization.
The average cost of inpatient treatment can run as high as $5,000/week. Most health insurance companies do not cover treatment for cocaine addiction. Some private detox centers have financing available or will be able to put you in contact with an available lender.
Most cocaine detox programs are residential or part of an extended outpatient treatment and recovery facility. In either case, you will want to ensure the local program you choose is operated by state-accredited, licensed, and professionally trained mental health professionals.
More Treatment Options For Cocaine Addiction
Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available for those seeking to quit cocaine. Addiction medicine focuses on addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of cocaine addiction. A combination of medical supervision, behavioral therapy, and mutual support groups has proven to be the most effective approach in helping people overcome cocaine addiction.
- Inpatient and Outpatient Care: Inpatient care is a more intensive option where individuals receive around-the-clock medical supervision in a structured environment. This type of treatment is particularly beneficial for individuals with severe addiction or those experiencing significant cocaine withdrawal symptoms. Outpatient care allows individuals to receive treatment while living at home, which can be helpful for those with strong social support systems and fewer withdrawal symptoms.
- Behavioral Therapies Behavioral therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are designed to help individuals understand the patterns of their addiction, identify triggers for cocaine use, and develop strategies to prevent relapse. Ongoing therapy sessions are crucial in addressing the underlying psychological issues that often contribute to substance use disorders.
- Contingency Management Contingency management is a behavioral therapy that provides incentives for maintaining sobriety. For example, individuals may receive rewards for clean drug tests, helping to reinforce the decision to quit cocaine.
- Pharmacological Treatment Although there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating cocaine addiction, ongoing research is being conducted to find effective pharmacological treatments. Some medications, such as those used to manage withdrawal symptoms for other substances, may be used to reduce cravings and ease the detox process.
New Approaches to Treatment and Recovery
Over the past few years, there have been significant strides in detoxification programs and therapies for people addicted to cocaine.
Most of these therapies are biochemical and claim to repress the neural interactions within the brain that cause addictive and impulsive cravings. Some of these services claim they can reach complete detoxification and make someone addicted accessible in a matter of days rather than weeks or months.
For more information on addiction and treatment centers, consider contacting American Addiction Centers.
Managing Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
One of the most challenging aspects of quitting cocaine is managing withdrawal symptoms. The process can be emotionally and physically draining, but it is essential to understand that these symptoms are a normal part of recovery.
Medical supervision during the early stages of withdrawal can help alleviate some of the discomfort and ensure that the person remains safe during detox.
Tips to Manage Withdrawal Symptoms:
- Stay Hydrated: Cocaine withdrawal often leads to dehydration, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water.
- Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce cravings and improve mood.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support the body’s recovery process.
- Sleep: Rest is crucial during withdrawal. Establish a regular sleep routine to help combat fatigue and restlessness.
The Importance of Support Groups and Mental Health Services
Recovery from cocaine addiction is not something that can be done alone. Seeking support from loved ones, professionals, and mutual support groups is crucial in maintaining long-term sobriety. The Mental Health Services Administration can provide access to treatment programs and resources tailored to the individual’s needs. Support groups like SMART Recovery offer a platform for individuals to connect with others who understand the struggles of quitting cocaine and overcoming addiction.
Key Support Resources:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Provides information and resources on drug addiction and treatment programs.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): A federal agency that offers support for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health
- SMART Recovery: A mutual support group focused on teaching individuals how to break free from addiction using science-based strategies.
- Narcotics Anonymous (NA): A peer support group where people share their experiences and encourage each other in their recovery journeys.
Preventing Relapse and Achieving Long-Term Recovery
Preventing relapse is one of the most critical steps in overcoming cocaine addiction. Addiction is a chronic disease, and relapse can happen even after long periods of sobriety. However, with ongoing therapy and a robust support system, individuals can reduce their risk of relapse and stay on the path to recovery.
Strategies to Prevent Relapse:
- Identify Triggers: Knowing what situations, emotions, or people trigger cravings can help you avoid them or develop coping strategies.
- Build Healthy Habits: Incorporate physical activity, mindfulness practices, and healthy relationships into daily life to support long-term recovery.
- Ongoing Therapy: Regular therapy sessions can help individuals continue processing emotions and challenges during recovery.
- Stay Connected with Support Groups: Staying involved in recovery groups or seeking support when needed is crucial for maintaining sobriety.
Fears Related to Cocaine Addiction
Fear #1: Withdrawal symptoms will be unbearable.
Reality: While withdrawal can be challenging, symptoms can be managed with medical supervision, therapy, and a supportive environment.
Fear #2: Treatment is too expensive or inaccessible.
Reality: Many treatment options, including outpatient care and support groups, can be affordable, and some are covered by insurance or government programs.
Fear #3: Stigma will prevent me from getting help.
Reality: Addiction is increasingly recognized as a medical condition, and many professionals and support networks offer judgment-free environments focused on recovery.
Fear #4: I’ll lose control of my life without cocaine.
Reality: Although cocaine provides temporary euphoria, long-term recovery allows you to regain full control of your mental and physical health, leading to lasting fulfillment.
Fear #5: I won’t be able to cope with stress without drugs.
Reality: Behavioral therapies like CBT teach healthier coping mechanisms that can be far more effective and sustainable for managing stress and life challenges.
Sum-up
Understanding The Cycle of Cocaine Abuse
The cycle can begin innocently enough—perhaps someone tries it out of curiosity, peer pressure, or in a social setting. However, the drug’s effects, such as increased energy and a sense of euphoria, can quickly lead to habitual use.
Addiction is not a sign of weakness; it is a disease that requires substance abuse treatment. Recognizing the physical, emotional, and psychological signs of cocaine addiction will bring you one step closer to obtaining professional help.
The health risks associated with chronic and long-term use of cocaine are substantial. Cocaine’s effects on the brain and body can lead to serious short and long-term health risks. Using cocaine places immense strain on the cardiovascular system, which can result in life-threatening conditions.
Cocaine also interferes with normal brain function, and its repeated use can cause permanent damage to the brain.
The risk of overdose and death is also present, especially when cocaine is combined with other substances such as alcohol or opioids.
Overcoming cocaine addiction requires individual determination, support, and professional help. Whether you are just starting the process of quitting cocaine or have been in recovery for some time, know that a drug-free life is possible and within your reach.
It’s never too late to seek help. By understanding cocaine addiction, managing withdrawal symptoms, and embracing behavioral therapies, you can regain control of your life.
Recovery is not just about quitting cocaine; it’s about reclaiming your life and building a future free from the destructive grip of addiction.
Surround yourself with a support system, stay committed to your recovery, and take things one day at a time.
Sources and References
National Institute of Drug Abuse Report On Cocaine Abuse
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
