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Opioids like fentanyl and heroin have the most notoriety in today's addiction problem, but cocaine has been a major issue for decades. Unlike opioids, which achieve a relaxing, comfortable high, cocaine causes excitement and a sense of power. Both can lead to significant health consequences, including addiction.
Cocaine is the third most commonly used illicit drug, with 15 percent of people using it during their lifetime, according to a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) survey. How Does Cocaine Work?As a stimulant cocaine belongs to a class of drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system. They enhance alertness, energy, and focus. Common stimulants include caffeine, amphetamines, and cocaine. Their effects include heightened wakefulness, increased heart rate, and elevated mood. However, prolonged use can lead to addiction, anxiety, and health risks. Cocaine specifically blocks dopamine reuptake, which is the natural process of your brain removing excess dopamine from your nervous system. This causes a buildup, which leads to the drug's primary effects. However, your brain can become desensitized to dopamine over time, which can lead to depression and even anhedonia--the inability to feel pleasure. Cocaine vs. Crack: Methods of UseAs with other drugs, taking cocaine by different methods can change the timing and intensity of its effects. Cocaine can be snorted, ingested orally, or smoked. Typical powered cocaine is very difficult to burn, and can't be smoked easily. To smoke it, cocaine is converted to crack cocaine, which is the same drug in a different form that is easier to burn. Crack cocaine's effects are fast and short-lived, which often leads to binging. A crack binge can lead to long periods without sleep, mental and physical exhaustion, and stimulant psychosis. Stimulant psychosis refers to severe psychological symptoms like delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations, brought on by excessive stimulant use. The Signs of Cocaine AbuseIf you believe a loved one is abusing cocaine, there are a few common signs. Cocaine is fast-acting and causes immediate euphoria, mental alertness, and extreme energy. It can also cause some adverse effects, including dilated pupils, irritability, anxiety, and raised heart rate. The positive effects of cocaine wear off quickly, leaving a long period of fading effects called the comedown. During the comedown, you may feel anxiety, exhaustion, depression, physical discomfort, and insomnia. Cocaine abuse can also start to cause some other noticeable signs, including:
Common Signs of AddictionAddiction comes with some signs and symptoms that are common no matter the drug of abuse. For instance, the addicted person may lose interest in common activities they once enjoyed, and they may isolate themselves from their friends and family. Other common signs include:
Cocaine Addiction Treatment OptionsThere is no cure for addiction, but it can be treated with the right help. There are several evidence-based treatments available that have been proven to help people achieve sobriety from active drug addiction. Behavioral Therapies Counseling helps address underlying issues and develop coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common behavioral therapies, which can help with substance use problems and underlying issues like mental illness. CBT targets thought patterns and behaviors related to drug use. Support Groups Isolation is the enemy of mental health and sobriety. Group therapy and support groups can help you get connected to other people who share similar struggles and goals. Twelve-step programs (e.g., Narcotics Anonymous) provide peer support and encouragement. Looking for Cocaine Addiction TreatmentIf you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine addiction, it's important to seek help. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options can make a significant difference. Take the first step towards recovery by educating yourself about cocaine addiction and exploring available treatment options. Consider reaching out to Wings of Life to get connected to people who share similar struggles and goals. Don't wait, start your journey to sobriety today. Comments are closed.
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