Learning about Cocaine Addiction

What is cocaine and cocaine addiction?: Learn all about the signs, symptoms, and treatments.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant. Cocaine is typically found in the form of a white powder, which is commonly snorted by its users. Cocaine is also found in another form called crack cocaine, which is a form of cocaine which has been processed to produce a rock which can be smoked. Although cocaine is commonly snorted, it can also be smoked, injected, or taken orally. Currently cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug due to its high potential for abuse, therefore, use of this drug is illegal in the U.S. However, this drug remains one of the most commonly abused drugs in the United States.

What Does Cocaine Do to The Brain?

All drugs have the ability to create changes in the way one's brain functions. Stimulant drugs such as cocaine, flood the brain with excess levels of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain which produces pleasure and makes people feel good when they engage in activities they enjoy such as eating or dancing. The flood of dopamine produced by taking cocaine can cause a disruption in the functioning of the brain's dopamine system. As a result, people often begin to lose the ability to experience pleasure in things and activities they once enjoyed. When the high produced by cocaine wears off, users typically will experience a "crash" and experience symptoms of withdrawal such as anxiety and depression. In addition, users will also experience strong cravings to use more. Experiencing cravings and the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms is commonly the cause of repeated use, which ultimately leads to addiction.

Signs of Cocaine Addiction?

Are you concerned that you or your loved one are suffering from a cocaine addiction, there are signs you can observe for. Some of the more common signs and symptoms of a cocaine addiction include:

  • Inability to control cocaine use
  • Unsuccessful attempts to stop using or reduce use of cocaine
  • Continued use of cocaine despite knowing the negative consequences associated with use of the drug
  • Experiencing strong cravings or compulsion to use cocaine
  • Recurrent use of the drug has caused the development of a tolerance
  • Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when use of drug has been reduced or stopped abruptly
  • Use of cocaine is interfering with responsibilities and commitments
  • Experiencing difficulties and issues in relationships with friends and family
  • Changes in appearance such as dilated pupils, burned lips, or fingers
  • Frequent runny nose or nosebleeds
  • Withdrawing and/or isolating oneself from friends and family in relation to cocaine use

If your or your loved one have exhibited multiple symptoms from the list above, we highly recommend seeking treatment immediately. Leaving a cocaine addiction untreated can lead to worsening health, or even premature death in some instances.

Slang and Street Names for Cocaine

  • Coke
  • Coca
  • C
  • Dope
  • White
  • Snow
  • Snowflake
  • Blow
  • Candy
  • White Girl
  • Bump Rock
  • Toot

Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

Similar to an addiction to other drugs, there is no cure for an addiction to cocaine. Nonetheless, cocaine addictions are capable of being effectively treated and managed with cocaine addition treatment. Cocaine addiction treatment typically combines pharmacological (medications) and behavioral approaches to effectively treat the condition. Currently, there are no medications which have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration to treat an addiction to cocaine. However, medications are used to treat the behavioral aspects of a cocaine addiction such as depression and anxiety. Behavioral treatments for cocaine addiction have shown to be highly effective, in both residential and outpatient settings. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management (CM).

Call Phoenix Drug Rehabs Today!

If you or your loved one are currently suffering from a cocaine addiction, now is the time to get started with treatment for cocaine addiction. Phoenix cocaine addiction treatment centers can successfully treat even the most severe addictions.

Call Phoenix Drug Rehab AZ today at 972-805-5950 to speak with someone about treatment options.

 

Sources:

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/cocaine/what-cocaine

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