What is Cocaine?
How is Cocaine Used?
Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Brain damage including memory loss and cerebral atrophy (brain shrinking)
- Increased risk of dementia
- Gastrointestinal damage
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Damage to the nose and mouth including septal perforations
Is Cocaine Addiction Treatable?
People who are addicted to cocaine or crack can take control of their addiction and fully recover.
However, stimulant addictions can be very powerful and most people who attempt to quit cocaine on their own might fail. Getting professional treatment is the best way to address and treat cocaine addiction.
People who have attempted to quit cocaine unsuccessfully in the past may benefit from a medical detox program. Medical detox makes the withdrawal process more comfortable for people who struggle with severe cocaine addiction. Clients in medical detox are treated by a doctor who can ensure the detox process happens safely and securely.
At Nexus Recovery, treatment for cocaine addiction is monitored by an experienced and knowledgeable team of healthcare professionals who specialize in addiction medicine and recovery. We offer partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient care, as well as an aftercare program that is designed to support clients in sobriety.
Every client treatment program is personalized based on the unique needs and goals for recovery. Through treatment modalities such as individual and group therapy, psychiatric care, psychoeducation, and spiritual counseling, clients receive the tools and resources necessary to get sober, stay sober, and live a more healthy and fulfilling life.
Cocaine vs. Crack
Another main difference between crack and cocaine is the price. Cocaine tends to be very expensive because the effects are so short-lived. Crack, on the other end, is much less expensive to purchase. Cocaine is often viewed as a drug for the wealthy, whereas crack has become more prominent in low-income areas.
Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine is a highly addictive substance, and the signs of stimulant abuse and addiction can be very noticeable.
If you’re concerned about potential cocaine addiction for you or a loved one, consider these warning signs:
- Increased risk-taking behaviors
- Frequent nose bleeds or runny nostrils
- Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
- Being overly talkative, excitable, or having fewer inhibitions
- Excessive mood swings, increased irritability, or violent outbursts
- Disregard for family, employment, school, and/or personal hygiene
- Paranoia or hallucinations
- Engaging in illegal activities to pay for or access cocaine
- Lying about or becoming defensive when asked about cocaine use
Because of its powerful euphoric effects and the rate at which tolerance to the drug can develop, cocaine addiction is common among recreational users. If cocaine has begun to interfere with the finances, relationships, or health of you or a loved one, it may be time to consider treatment.