Cocaine Addiction and Treatment

About Cocaine and Crack

One of the most dangerous, addictive, and commonly abused street drugs in the United States and other nations, cocaine is most often used in one of two forms:

• Powder cocaine – In hydrochloride salt form, this version of the drug can be dissolved in water, and is commonly ingested either intranasally (snorted through the nose) or intravenously (injected via syringe).
• Crack cocaine – Popularized during the 1980s, this version (also referred to as “rock” cocaine) has been processed from powder into a small white pebble-like form that can be smoked. Crack is much less expensive on the street than powder cocaine is, and is even more addictive than is the hydrochloride salt form.

The United Nations has classified cocaine as a Schedule I drug – which means that the UN has outlawed the production, manufacture, distribution, use, and possession of the drug.

In the United States, cocaine is classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning that in the eyes of the U.S. government the drug has a high potential for abuse, but does have some legitimate medical applications.

Risks and Consequences of Cocaine Use

Over the past few decades, cocaine (in both powder and crack forms) has remained a popular drug of abuse among people of various ages and socioeconomic groups. The drug produces a short-term euphoria, energy boost, and increased alertness that some find appealing – but both first-time and long-term users are putting themselves at risk for a number of consequences:

Short-Term Dangers – The most worrisome short-term danger is that even a single dose of cocaine can lead to fatal cardiac arrest. Other dangers include respiratory failure, cardiovascular damage, and seizure.

Long-Term Damage – For habitual users (those who have used for a long period of time, or who have ingested a significant amount of cocaine), the long-term ramifications of cocaine abuse include the following:

• Addiction and tolerance
• Paranoia and hallucinations
• Irregular heart rhythm and increased likelihood of cardiac arrest
• Respiratory failure (impaired breathing)
• A greater likelihood of seizure and stroke
• Chest pain, abdominal pain, and nausea

Treatment for Cocaine Abuse & Addiction

In addition to the medical risks described above, cocaine abuse and addiction can lead to significant social and behavioral damage, as well as impairments to a person’s ability to maintain healthy relationships, remain gainfully employed, and continue as a functioning member of society.

On the “good news” side, though, cocaine abuse and addiction are treatable conditions that, with effective professional intervention, can be overcome. Many individuals who once believed that they were incapable of transcending their addictive lifestyle are now living happy, healthy, and productive drug-free lives.
As with some other types of addiction, cocaine abuse and addictions appear to respond best to a two-pronged treatment approach that features behavioral and pharmacological components

Behavioral – Whether conducted on an outpatient basis or in a residential treatment facility, cognitive behavioral therapy teaches recovering individuals how to take control over their urges and behaviors, and how to resist cravings, stresses, pressures, and other unhealthy influences that may lead to relapse. Behavioral therapy may be conducted in individual, family, and group settings, and may also include contingency management instruction (focusing on new behaviors in order to minimize the likelihood of a return to former drug-seeking activities).

Pharmacological – This type of treatment involves the use of medications (in the case of cocaine addiction, usually antidepressants) to ease the physical and mental stress of detoxification and withdrawal.

Though a wide range of treatment philosophies and methodologies exist, what is most important is to find a program that meets the unique needs of the person who needs the help.

If you or someone you love is struggling to overcome a problem with cocaine, you can learn more about abuse, addiction, and available treatment options by calling 888.484.1047.

Articles Page