Cocaine Addiction: Symptoms, Effects, & Rehab
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a central nervous stimulant drug commonly encountered on the illicit market as a white powder. In this crystalline powdered form, it is often cut with other substances, such as talcum powder or cornstarch, to make it more profitable for dealers.2
Illicitly manufactured cocaine is sometimes also mixed with other stimulants or synthetic opioids like fentanyl—a practice which can make devastating drug overdoses more likely.2
People using cocaine commonly snort it, though it may also be smoked or dissolved into liquid solution to be injected.2 Other people may mix cocaine with heroin prior to injecting it, which is known as a “speedball”.2
Why is Cocaine Addictive?
Cocaine is an addictive substance because its use increases the activity of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in rewarding certain types of behavior.2 This temporary surge in dopamine activity in our brain’s reward circuits reinforces the continued use of cocaine.2
Over time, repeated use of cocaine and the accompanying alterations in our reward centers and other brain systems are thought to make cocaine addiction more likely.2 Additionally though, whether or not a person develops an addiction is thought to be influenced by the complex interaction of several biological and environmental factors. These risk factors can include:3
- Genetics.
- Certain adverse life experiences (e.g., chaotic home life, abuse).
- The presence of certain other mental health issues.
- Drug availability.
- Peer influences and low peer refusal skills.
- Exposure to parental substance use.
- Lack of parental supervision.
- Drug use beginning at a relatively early age.
- Common route of use (i.e., smoking and injecting).
Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Although a substance use disorder diagnosis may be best provided by a doctor or other treatment professional, there are signs that someone possibly has a problem that could indicate the need for further evaluation. As the official diagnostic criteria for stimulant use disorders, the signs of cocaine addiction can include:5
- Using more cocaine than was originally intended.
- Persistently wanting to or unsuccessfully attempting to cut back on cocaine use or stop using it entirely.
- The use of cocaine takes a lot of money, time, and resources to get it, use it, and recover from using it.
- You have strong urges and cravings to use cocaine.
- You cannot fulfill your obligations as a parent, student, and/or employee due to cocaine use.
- Cocaine use continues despite increased social or interpersonal problems.
- Cocaine use leads you to abandon previously important social, occupational, or other recreational pursuits.
- Cocaine is used in risky situations like driving or operating heavy machinery.
- You keep using cocaine despite knowing it has caused or worsened a mental or physical condition.
- You develop a tolerance, which means you need to take more cocaine to keep feeling its desired high.
- You experience signs of withdrawal if you stop using it.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Addiction?
While in the short-term, a person may experience euphoria and increased energy, they can also experience irregular heart rate and rhythm, increased blood pressure, hyperthermia, hypersensitivity to various external stimuli, irritability, and psychotic features such as hallucinations and paranoia.2
Some people may eventually become malnourished due to cocaine misuse, as this drug reduces appetite significantly.2
There are also other risks based on how the person uses cocaine. For example, in the long-term, people who snort cocaine may develop:2
- Loss of sense of smell.
- Chronic congestion or runny nose.
- Nosebleeds.
- Swallowing issues.
If a person smokes cocaine routinely, they can also experience:2
- Asthma.
- Coughing.
- Breathing difficulties.
- Increased risk of infections like pneumonia.
If someone injects cocaine, the negative, long-term health risks include:2
- Increased likelihood of contracting bloodborne illnesses, such as hepatitis C and HIV.
- Scarring and collapsed veins from repeated injections.
- Skin and tissue infections (e.g., skin abscess, cellulitis).
Cocaine Withdrawal & Detox
As physical dependence to cocaine develops, a person will eventually need the drug to feel normal; when the drug is no longer used, the person will experience symptoms of cocaine withdrawal.6
During cocaine withdrawal, the absence of the substance in the system after a period of heavy and prolonged use leads to a characteristic set of often-unpleasant physiological adjustments—known as an acute withdrawal syndrome.6,7
Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
When cocaine dependence becomes significant, after the cessation of cocaine use, a person may experience a number of withdrawal symptoms, such as:2,5,7
- Depression.
- Feelings of irritability.
- Vivid dreams or nightmares.
- Changes in sleep patterns (hypersomnia or insomnia).
- Fatigue.
- Poor concentration / impaired thinking.
- Increased appetite.
Though stimulant withdrawal rarely presents immediate medical dangers nor intense physical discomfort, some individuals may benefit from the added safety and comfort of a drug detox program.7
In some cases of stimulant withdrawal, people can experience a profound depression with associated suicidal thoughts. In such instances, more intensive treatment interventions and withdrawal management measures may be needed.7
Medical supervision may also be especially important if the individual is dependent on multiple substances, which may complicate withdrawal.7
Cocaine Addiction & Treatment
Although it is never easy to speak to others about cocaine misuse or addiction to any other types of drugs, it is important to get your loved one the help they need.
There are family resources that can aid you in helping a family member with addiction.
What Kinds of Treatment Are Effective for Cocaine Addiction?
Cocaine addiction can be a challenging condition to overcome, but a variety of treatment options are available to support recovery. Each individual may benefit from different levels of care depending on their unique needs and circumstances. Here are some of the most effective treatment options:
Inpatient Addiction Treatment
This approach offers intensive care, where individuals reside at a treatment facility and receive round-the-clock supervision and support. This setting is ideal for those with severe addiction or co-occurring mental health issues, as it provides a structured environment away from potential triggers. Inpatient programs typically include medical assistance, counseling, group therapy, and various therapeutic activities.
Outpatient Addiction Treatment
For those who have a stable home environment and a supportive network, outpatient treatment can be a flexible option. Participants attend therapy sessions which may range from a few hours per week to up to 20 hours, depending on their individual needs. This program allows individuals to maintain their daily responsibilities while still receiving professional help, making it easier to integrate the skills learned into their everyday lives.
Short-term Rehab
Short-term rehab programs last from a few days to a couple of weeks and can serve as a critical first step in the recovery journey. These programs are often residential and aim to provide immediate stabilization and intensive support. After completing a short-term treatment, individuals may transition into outpatient programs to continue their recovery journey and reinforce the skills gained during their initial treatment.
Long-term Residential Treatment
For those with significant challenges in their recovery process, long-term residential treatment, lasting from six months up to a year or more, can offer an immersive therapeutic environment. In this type of program, individuals participate in a structured community that fosters personal growth, accountability, and social connection. With ongoing therapy, life skills training, and support from peers and professionals, patients can develop the resilience needed to maintain lasting sobriety.
While the duration and type of treatment can vary widely depending on the individual’s specific recovery goals, studies show that longer periods in a supportive treatment setting are often correlated with more effective recovery outcomes. Ultimately, the right approach will depend on personal circumstances, including the severity of addiction, support networks, and individual recovery preferences.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment in Massachusetts
If you are ready to start treatment, you may wonder what the process is to get into a rehab program.
The first step is to call to speak to one of our admissions navigators, who can answer questions that you may have about the rehab program and help you figure out your insurance coverage and payment options for treatment.
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