Is Cocaine Addictive?

There’s a common misconception around cocaine that usually starts with a simple question: is cocaine addictive? Many people mistakenly believe that because cocaine is considered a recreationally social drug, it doesn’t carry the same levels of addiction or physical withdrawal symptoms as other drugs. But in fact, cocaine is one of the most powerfully addictive substances out there, with high addiction rates among both young people and adults.

What Is Crack Cocaine?

Grouped together with cocaine addiction, is crack cocaine addiction. Crack cocaine is nearly identical to cocaine on a molecular level, but it produces a more intense high and is often smoked instead of snorted. Similar to cocaine, crack cocaine produces brief periods of euphoria and energy, and may eventually cause restlessness, irritability, and frequent absences to seek fixes. It is known as the free-base form of cocaine, and is considered to be the most addictive form of the substance.

Signs of Cocaine Use

The signs of cocaine use are both behavioral and physical. Users may appear incredibly energetic and talkative, with little need for food and sleep. Inflated feelings of confidence tend to present as well, and over time rapid mood swings and irritability. Physical signs include dilated pupils, constantly runny noses or nosebleeds, and traces of white powder under a user’s nose. Cocaine use looks similar to other substance use in that users will often isolate themselves or frequently excuse themselves to go use more of the drug. Changes in their behavior will also be recognizable concurrent with the behavioral descriptions mentioned above. Because the high of cocaine is generally quite fleeting, alternations between cocaine mental effects and the irritability associated with coming down from the drug may get more and more apparent over time.

How To Help Someone With Cocaine Addiction?

If you are wondering how to help someone suffering from cocaine addiction, the answer almost always lies in professional treatment. Due to the nature of cocaine and crack cocaine and the misconception that they are not as addictive as other substances, users may be reluctant to seek out help on their own. It is important to recognize however that addiction is an illness, first and foremost, and inpatient treatment may be the most effective way for users to find a path to a sober life.

Early treatment is recommended, as cocaine abuse reduces an individual’s ability for smart decision making and may lead to other types of addictions. Some users rely on substances like alcohol and other drugs to reduce the side effects of the come down from cocaine, which puts into place a cycle of dependency that can be very hard to break. Health can suffer quickly, with users experiencing heightened physical and psychological effects that reduce their ability to function well in society.

Recovery At Retreat

Retreat Behavioral Health work with patients to develop treatment plans that can help them sustain a cocaine-free life. The recovery process generally starts with an inpatient detoxification process, during which patients are overseen by a professionally trained staff. During and after the detox period patients are provided with comprehensive cognitive behavioral therapy and psychotherapy that helps them address the root causes of their addiction. These treatment modalities are supplemented with holistic wellness practices of the patient’s choosing, which may include anything from equine-assisted therapy to yoga.

Get Help Today

If you or a loved one are suffering from cocaine addiction, help is available. Admissions are accepted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at our facilities, with free ground transportation available to and from our centers. 

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