Millions of people struggle with addiction to illegal drugs, prescription medications, alcohol, and other substances. Cocaine is one of the most commonly abused illicit drugs in the United States, with nearly 5 million people reporting using it each year.
Cocaine abuse can have dangerous short and long-term risks. People who abuse cocaine are at risk of a deadly overdose, chronic health complications, cardiovascular issues, and more. It is important to understand the risk of this drug and seek treatment for cocaine abuse.
This article will explore how cocaine affects the body. You will learn:
- Whether cocaine is a stimulant or a depressant
- The effects and risks of cocaine abuse
- The potential for cocaine overdose
- The signs of cocaine addiction
- What to expect in cocaine addiction treatment
- Where to find substance use disorder (SUD) treatment
If you or a loved one struggles with cocaine use or addiction, you are not alone. Find assessment, treatment, and recovery support programs at Archstone Behavioral Health. Reach out to our intake team to learn about our services or to schedule your first appointment.
What is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a powerful, illicit stimulant drug. People extract cocaine from the leaves of the coca plant. It is commonly found in two forms: a white powder and a solid, crystal-like form called crack cocaine.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) released data in 2021 showing that about 4.8 million people over the age of 12 reported using cocaine in the previous year. Of these, nearly 1.5 million people lived with cocaine addiction.
Is Cocaine a Stimulant?
Cocaine is an addictive illegal drug. But is cocaine a depressant or a stimulant?
Cocaine is a stimulant. Cocaine and other stimulants increase activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Cocaine works by affecting neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) called dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are involved in mood, arousal, energy, memory, and attention.
Drugs that stimulate CNS activity may produce pleasurable side effects, including euphoria and increased energy. People who snort cocaine or smoke crack cocaine typically experience short-term effects. Prolonged or heavy use may lead to long-term effects of cocaine abuse.
The Effects and Risks of Cocaine Abuse
Cocaine is a potent stimulant drug. Some of the short-term effects of cocaine include:
- Dilated pupils
- Euphoria
- Heightened senses
- Increased energy levels
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
People may also experience uncomfortable or dangerous side effects, including:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Psychosis
- Muscle twitches
- Restlessness or agitation
- Panic attacks
Cocaine’s stimulant effects typically last for a short time. This can cause people to use it heavily or frequently in short periods. Over time, heavy cocaine use may lead to symptoms of addiction, including:
- Tolerance (needing to use more to get the desired effects)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop using cocaine
- Cravings
- Loss of control over cocaine use
It is essential to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of cocaine abuse or addiction. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our treatment and recovery support programs.
Is it Possible to Overdose on Cocaine?
Heavy cocaine use or taking high doses of cocaine leads to an increased risk of overdose. A cocaine overdose can be deadly. It is crucial to get help if you or someone near you exhibits signs of an overdose, including:
- Fast breathing
- Changes in heart rhythm
- Somach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Twitching
- Seizures
- Parania
- Aggression
- Elevated body temperature
- Confusion
Call 911 right away if you or someone else shows signs of an overdose. Wait with the person until help arrives.
The only way to avoid a cocaine overdose is to stop using cocaine. If you cannot stop using cocaine on your own, seek professional treatment. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to find the treatment and support you need to overcome substance abuse.
Treating Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction can be life-threatening. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs.
Each person has different needs during addiction recovery. Specialized, tailored treatment is essential to help people meet their recovery goals.
Treatment for cocaine addiction may include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Medical detox programs (medications, holistic care, supervision, emotional support, mental health treatment)
- Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Holistic therapies, including creative expression, nutrition support, mindfulness, and exercise
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Aftercare planning
Before beginning treatment, each person will undergo an assessment to determine which type of treatment and level of care is best for their unique needs. People may attend several levels of care, including:
- Medical detox programs
- Inpatient and residential treatment programs
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient rehab
Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health treatment specialists to find the correct levels of care and support to help you meet your recovery goals.
Find Cocaine Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you love abuses cocaine or other substances, you are not alone. Find comprehensive, compassionate cocaine addiction treatment at Archstone Behavioral Health. Learn about our programs, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our intake team today.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Cocaine
- Frontiers in Pharmacology: Long-Term Outcomes of Patients With Cocaine Use Disorder: A 18-years Addiction Cohort Study
- American Heart Association (AHA): Stimulant Drugs of Abuse and Cardiac Arrhythmias
